Mechanics in Energy Storage and Energy Harvesting

Rechargeable batteries function by reversible ion shuttling between the electrodes through the electrolyte, either solid or liquid. Large amount, high rate ion insertion induces large deformation in electrode materials as well as solid electrolytes, leading to material failure, and consequently irreversible capacity decay, poor cyclability, and circuit shorting. Zhang’s research focuses on developing multiscale, multiphysical models that incorporates the reciprocal interactions between large deformation and lithium insertion/deinsertion kinetics to elucidate the electrochemical processes. Corroborated with advanced in-situ transmission electron microscopy, Zhang’s models highlight how mechanics and electrochemistry reciprocally influence one another in battery charge/discharge cycling, how the mechanics-electrochemistry coupling might be dysregulated in battery degradation, and how it might be harnessed for energy storage and harvesting. Findings from the modeling approach underlie materials, designs, and devices.