Paving the way for ‘next-generation’ lithium-ion batteries
A new study from Penn Engineering details the complex electrochemical process that causes certain types of batteries to degrade, insights that could aid in the design of longer lasting, more efficient batteries in the future.
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are widely used in phones, tablets, and laptops. But before they can be applied in more power-intensive settings, such as for electric vehicles, these power sources need to be redesigned to be smaller, cheaper, and able to charge more quickly while still performing at a high level.
One approach is to develop new types of electrodes that can store larger amounts of lithium by using alloy-type materials in a battery’s anode. However, this approach is not widely used because the charging cycle causes the lithium-storing particles in the anode to expand and eventually break apart, resulting in a battery that quickly fails. Worse, the actual mechanisms responsible for this degradation are not yet well-understood.
Now, in a new a study published in ACS Energy Letters, researchers from the School of Engineering and Applied Science detail the complex electrochemical process that causes alloy-type batteries to degrade and fail. Using advanced nanoscale imaging techniques, the new insights gained from this work could aid in the design of longer lasting, more efficient lithium-ion batteries in the future.
In Senegal, the ambitious Dakar Greenbelt project seeks to create an extensive network of ecological infrastructure in and around the city to sustainably address environmental concerns and enhance urban life. With support from David Gouverneur and Ellen Neises, Ph.D. candidate Rob Levinthal in the Weitzman School of Design led two courses that included a field trip to Dakar, that culminated in students presenting their visions for parts of the Greenbelt.
From a desert to an oasis: Penn engages in ambitious greening effort in the Sahel
Students from the Weitzman School of Design journeyed to Senegal to help with a massive ecological and infrastructural greening effort as part of their coursework. The Dakar Greenbelt aims to combat desertification and promote sustainable urban growth.
As part of an undergraduate course, Penn faculty and students curated an Arthur Ross Gallery exhibition of works from the Neumann family’s extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
The University’s nexus for technology transfer supports researchers in their innovative efforts, from CAR T to mRNA advancements that have dramatically reshaped the world.
