Search Thermo Fisher Scientific
Search Thermo Fisher Scientific
Stay up to date on our upcoming events as well as the latest news and insights into battery and clean energy research.
Advanced imaging and battery characterization workshop in the USA empowers clean energy enthusiasts
In May 2024, we hosted an advanced imaging and battery characterization workshop at the Thermo Fisher Scientific North American NanoPort in Hillsboro, Oregon, USA. This workshop brought together a dedicated group of microscopy enthusiasts and battery materials scientists to discuss and share insights on imaging beam-sensitive materials, battery structural analysis, metal impurity detection, and the advantages of electron and ion microscopy.
We also demonstrated how the Thermo Scientific Inert Gas Sample Transfer (IGST) Workflow preserves the integrity of air- and moisture-sensitive materials, allowing researchers to concentrate on important clean energy questions without worrying about sample degradation.
Be sure to regularly check this page for the latest news and events in your region.
Congratulations to Thomas Marchese and Min-Huei Chiou, who submitted the winning posters for the inaugural Clean Energy Forum!
Min-Huei Chiou, Helmholtz-Institute Münster, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH
Compatibility of Polymer Segments Impacts Electrolyte Membrane Homogeneity and Electrochemical Performance
A reversible exploitation of high-energy density lithium metal batteries requires homogeneous lithium deposition upon cell cycling, where copolymer electrolytes based on their good balance of mechanical strength and achievable ionic conductivity are viable candidates for mitigating high-surface-area lithium growth. Thus, in this work1, in-depth analysis of (polarity-derived) compatibility among polymer segments that affect the distribution of membrane properties and lithium deposition is presented, introducing PTMC- and PEO-based copolymer systems2. The corresponding morphology of lithium deposits appeared severely localized in cases where the electrostatic fields and number of lithium-ion coordination sites at the polymer segment species were highly different, exhibiting sudden cycling failure and poor cell longevity. In contrast, copolymer electrolytes comprised of more compatible segment species (as reflected by similar molecular dipole moments) afforded superior cell performance (e.g., cycling at rates of 1C even with higher mass-loaded cathodes (6.3 mg cm−2)). Combined with computational efforts, the present work contributes to more comprehensive understanding of cell failure mechanisms and the design of tailored electrolytes that could avoid lithium protrusion of the membranes, in this way yielding feasible concepts for a development of high-performance copolymer electrolytes.
1. M.-C. Chiou et al., ACS Applied Energy Materials 2023, 6, 4422
2. M.-C. Chiou et al., Journal of Power Sources 2022, 538, 231528
Thomas Marchese, University of Chicago
Spatial and Spectral Characterization of Energy Material Interfaces
Advancements in interfacial engineering of energy materials is enabling integration of next-generation batteries, fuel cells, and photovoltaics for higher efficiency green energy. The interfaces comprised of solids, liquids, and gases undergo dynamic changes under operation via interaction with triggers such as photons, electrons, and ions. It is important that a mechanistic understanding is achieved for the role of evolving interface morphology on performance. Fitting such a purpose, scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) characterization of the cross-section of devices provides the ability to resolve the two-dimensional structural relationship between components below an angstrom. In combination with techniques like high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, STEM experiments can additionally reveal precise chemical information about the location of elements within an ordered or disordered interface. The combination of hyperspectral and structural information is important to understanding degradation pathways that currently limit the operational lifetime of engineered devices. The acquisition and analysis of this data with due diligence is not trivial as these devices often include reactive materials and phases including lithium and sulfur, which can be highly sensitive to beam damage mechanisms. As such, careful experimental design must be employed for controlling the environment during sample preparation and to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio of data obtained through low-dose STEM experiments preformed at cryogenic temperatures.
In 2024, we’re planning to visit Asia, Europe, and America. Join us for a unique, intimate experience that allows for personalized interactions, in-depth discussions, and plenty of opportunities to network with colleagues from around the world.
The Battery Show North America
October 7 – 10, 2024
Detroit, Michigan, USA
Booth 1600
Clean Energy Forum Korea (organized by Thermo Fisher Scientific)
September 23 - 24, 2024
Location: COEX Convention and Exhibition Center
Seoul, South Korea
Clean Energy Forum United Kingdom (organized by Thermo Fisher Scientific)
October 8 – 9, 2024
Location: Warwick Manufacturing Group and UKBIC
Coventry, United Kingdom