Battery Research at UCL: An Overview, James Robinson

Abstract: James Robinson will provide an overview of the battery research which has been conducted at the Electrochemical Innovation Lab and Advanced Propulsion Labs at UCL over the past several years. In particular, he will focus on highlighting unique capabilities and approaches which have facilitated developments in this area. He will also outline the new approach to university research facilities which is being utilised at Marshgate, underscoring the potential for  interdepartmental collaboration.

Quasi-solid-state Li-S battery research at UCL, Huanxin Li

Abstract: Huanxin Li will present an overview of the recent research on quasi-solid-state lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries conducted at the Electrochemical Innovation Lab and Advanced Propulsion Lab at University College London (UCL) over the past year. His talk will provide a broad background on this cutting-edge technology, with a focus on the electrochemical mechanisms that underpin the performance of quasi-solid-state Li-S batteries. Dr. Li will also discuss future development directions in this area, as well as outline recent research and upcoming projects utilizing UCL’s research facilities at Marshgate.

Damage Free Preparation of Batteries for Electron Microscopy

Abstract: Batteries are complex structures comprising multiple segmented and sensitive materials. As battery technologies advance, detailed insights into their microstructures are crucial for assessing factors like efficiency, capacity, and degradation. However, conventional sample preparation techniques can inadvertently damage or alter these fine structures, leading to the generation of imaging artefacts and inaccurate analysis. In order to preserve the native state of the battery new techniques must be employed. The seminar will cover how ion beam milling can be employed to create smooth cross-sections, revealing the internal architecture of battery materials without introducing artifacts, and explore case studies that demonstrate the importance of preserving microstructural details to better understand the relationships between microstructure and performance in battery systems

Understanding Prototype Size and Scaling for Final Device Performance Prediction: 

The move from lab scale to commercially relevant product is a complex and costly process requiring extensive resources and equipment. A critical part in de-risking this journey is the manufacture of pouch and cylindrical cell prototypes. These prototypes allow new discoveries to be tested and demonstrated in industry recognizable full device formats, where their true impact on cell performance in device can be showcased and understood.

This talk will look at the effect of size and engineering of prototype cells to consider the question ‘what form and size of prototype is needed to give a reasonable prediction of final device performance?’

Challenges and solutions for mining, refining and recycling in the battery industry.

Abstract: This presentation will explore the numerous difficulties and problems inherent in the life cycle of lithium-ion batteries. It will explore the analytical challenges these present, the impact that poorly obtained data has, and how different technologies and approaches can help to overcome these issues.

Applications of thermal analysis & calorimetry for the development & testing of batteries

Abstract: Thermal Analysis and calorimetry can play an important part in the characterisation of batteries and battery materials. This presentation will cover thermal stability of the materials, thermal management within the batteries, and the production of datafor the thermal safety characterisation of batteries with typical experimental data presented.

Banking on Better Black Mass

Abstract: Physical processing of batteries is an important process in the recycling of batteries. For many recycling companies it is common to shred batteries, and then conduct a series of processes to separate the various sub-components into steels, plastics, Cu & Al concentrates, and black mass, which contains the mixed anodic and cathodic active materials, and is a widely traded feedstock sought for  hydrometallurgical separation companies. The purity of this black mass product is paramount, and will decide the value of the product, as well as the suitability for various recycling routes. 

With sufficient material purity, the ultimate goal of direct recycling can be achieved. Direct recycling preserves the crystal structure of the active material, for reuse in new cells. This is a preferable approach to hydrometallurgical recycling, according to the “reduce, reuse, recycle” waste hierarchy.

The various active materials commonly used in Li-ion batteries have different magnetic properties, and it is possible to exploit these differences to achieve separation. This has been used to achieve separation of electrodes at a coarse size (1), to produce a cathode electrode concentrate of high grade (up to 99% for 1-4mm particles). The magnetic properties of various cathodic active materials have been investigated, and their suitability for magnetic separation compared. This investigation has relevance in electrode separation as well as valorisation of mixed black mass, and addresses industry’s need to improve the cost-effectiveness and sustainability of recycling process, by using the shortest possible recycling routes.

1. Kendrick E, Sommerville R. Battery Recycling [Internet]. WO 2022/263812 A1. Available from: https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/detail.jsf?docId=WO2022263812

Rotational Rheometry and Compounding in Battery Research and Manufacturing.

Abstract TBC