Operando/In-situ Characterizations for Stationary Batteries (Call Module 2026-06)

As a Senior Researcher and Docent at Uppsala University (Department of Chemistry - Ångström Laboratory), I am seeking to join European consortia applying for Call Module 2026-06: Stationary battery technologies and systems for climate-neutral industry and built environment. We offer deep expertise in material design, interface stabilization, and advanced operando diagnostics to improve the cycle life, safety, and operational reliability of stationary battery energy storage systems.

Based on our expertise and facility, we can lead or contribute to Work Packages (WPs) in the following areas:

1. Advanced Diagnostics & Degradation Analysis:

• Real-time tracking of structural phase transitions, lattice evolution, and degradation kinetics in operating batteries using state-of-the-art operando and in-situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) and synchrotron X-ray tomography.

• Non-destructive elucidation of aging mechanisms and capacity fade under prolonged cycling or stationary duty cycles.

2. Durable Cathode & Anode Engineering for Long Cycle Life:

• Design and surface engineering of single-crystal Ni-rich cathodes (e.g., NCM811 with dielectric/hydrophobic coatings) to mitigate microcracking and side reactions with electrolytes.

• High-performance anode developments, including sustainably sourced SiO2 (e.g., diatomaceous earth), Si/C composites, and non-dendritic metallic interfaces.

3. High-Safety Solid/Gel Electrolytes & Functional Separators for Built Environments:

• UV-cured solid polymer and gel polymer electrolytes offering high ionic conductivity, wide electrochemical windows, and intrinsic fire safety for indoor and industrial stationary applications.

• Functional organic-inorganic hybrid coatings on separators (e.g., SiO2, POSS, Al2O3) to homogenize Li+/ion flux and prevent dendrite penetration.

4. Low-Cost and Sustainable Alternative Chemistries:

• Extensive experience in beyond-Li and mixed-ion chemistries (Na-ion, polyanionic cathode insertion compounds, and quasi-solid-state configurations) to support cobalt-free, resource-sustainable stationary storage solutions.

We bring access to world-class materials synthesis facilities at Uppsala University and regular beamtime at major European synchrotron radiation sources (e.g., DESY, MAX IV). We welcome collaboration with project coordinators, battery cell/pack manufacturers, system integrators, and utilities forming consortia for Call Module 2026-06.