Development of nanofibrous electrode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries

Project goal: he main goal is to improve the electrochemical properties of polyanion compounds and Ge-based alloying anode materials for lithium-ion batteries as electrochemical energy storage systems of potential coupling with alternative energy sources. Furthermore, obtaining new fundamental insights for the further development of such materials is aimed.

Project description: The project focuses on the development of nanofibrous polyanion cathodes based on compounds with the general formula LixMy(XO4)z (where X is a nonmetal such as P, S, B, or Si, and M is a transition metal) and Ge-based anodes (e.g., Ge, GeO2, GeS2, GeP3) with enhanced electrochemical performance for lithium-ion batteries, combining advanced synthesis, comprehensive characterization, and fundamental studies to enable their integration with alternative energy systems.

Project facilitators:
PI - Ayaulym Belgibayeva, Leading researcher
Arailym Nurpeissova, Leading researcher
Uldana Kydyrbayeva, Junior researcher
Samal Berikbaikyzy, research assistant
Yrysgul Sagynbay, research assistant
Gulderaiym Turarova, research assistant

Realisation period: 2023-2025

Expected results: The project is expected to yield advanced nanofibrous cathode and anode materials with understood formation and electrochemical mechanisms, enabling high-performance lithium-ion batteries and resulting in publications and presentations in recognized scientific platforms.

Methodology: The methodology involves synthesizing nanofibrous polyanion cathodes and Ge-based anodes via electrospinning with optimized heat treatment, followed by comprehensive physical (XRD, XPS, FTIR, Raman, SEM, TEM, BET, CHNS), electrochemical (CV, EIS, galvanostatic cycling), and ex-situ characterizations to elucidate composite formation mechanisms and lithiation/delithiation behavior.

Contacts: ayaulym.belgibayeva@nu.edu.kz