A full description is posted on the ATOMS lab webiste: https://atomslab.github.io/

Applications will be reviewed starting November 1. To apply send resume/CV, unoMicial transcript, research statement, and 1-2 page letter describing your interest in the ATOMS Lab to atoms@umbc.edu. Specify which project below most interests you (and why), and what degree you would be pursuing at UMBC. 

The ATOMS Lab develops new algorithms for artificial intelligence and molecular simulations. Learn more about our supportive culture and our lab policies here. We’re based in the Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, just outside of Baltimore and about an hour north of Washington, DC. 

Background

Results

Conclusions

Transition metal oxide cathodes are widely used in commercial Li-ion batteries. However, their practical charge capacity is limited due to severe chemo-mechanical instabilities at higher charge voltage, and state-of-charge condition. Here, in situ stress and strain measurements were synchronized to probe mechanical deformations on the lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) cathode via a multi-beam stress sensor and digital image correlation, respectively. In situ mechanical measurements revealed how Li removal from the electrode structure induces deformations on the LCO cathodes during cycling. The structure and morphology of the LCO cathodes were further investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies. Two distinct electrochemical and mechanical behaviors were identified when the LCO was charged up to 4.65 V. The LCO undergoes a compressive stress generation when charged up to 4.2 V and surface fractures on the LCO particles were detected by SEM. LCO cathode experienced significantly large contractions (negative strains) when charged up to 4.65 V, where intergranular crack formation and phase transformation were detected on the LCO particles via SEM and XRD, respectively. Overall, the study bridges complicated structural deformations with in situ analysis of mechanical degradations in LCO cathodes charged at higher voltages. The correlation is vital to understanding instability mechanisms in transition metal oxides at high voltages for alkali metal ion batteries.