The AMEE Research Group, under Dr. Özgür Çapraz, Associate Professor, CBEE, has 2 new publications in the Journal of Energy Storage and MRS Communications, and a preprint article in ChemRxiv. 

Published in Journal of Energy Storage

Title: 
Electro-chemical and interfacial effects of both gel polymer electrolyte and cathode binder in rechargeable zinc-manganese dioxide alkaline batteries

Authors: 

Athira Anilkumar, Nachammai Nachiappan, Aswani Poosapati, Rohan Ambade, Aneisa Jangbahadur, Yucheng Lan, Joseph Washington, Priyanshu Banerjee, Rahuldeb Roy, Navid Etebari Alamdari, Deepa Madan

Abstract:

Flexible aqueous zinc‑manganese dioxide (Zn-MnO2) batteries offer a promising route toward safe, sustainable, and low-cost energy storage for wearable electronics, but their rechargeability is often limited by irreversible cathode structures, unstable electrode-electrolyte interfaces, and sluggish ionic transport. Here, we present a systematic co-optimization of gel polymer electrolytes and cathode binders to address these challenges. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Poly acrylic acid (PAA) and Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) were used to synthesize three flexible gel polymer electrolytes, PVA-KOH, PVA -PAA, and PVA-PAA-KOH. The amorphous, microporous PVA-PAA electrolyte enabling efficient ion transport exhibited the highest ionic conductivity (155 mS/cm), with thickness of 0.23 mm, wide electrochemical stability window (~ 2 V), excellent swelling capacity, and mechanical robustness (tensile strength: 29.5 MPa). Parallel evaluation of cathode binder systems (Carboxyl methyl cellulose (CMC), PVA-PAA, Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)) revealed that CMC promotes homogeneous dispersion of γ-MnO2, preserves the Mn3+/Mn4+ redox balance, and minimizes irreversible complex accumulation, resulting superior electrode cohesion, roughness, and ion-electron percolation pathways. Electrochemical testing confirmed that the optimized PVA-PAA electrolyte coupled with CMC binder, among tested, better supports reversible kinetics by creating suitable interface, delivering high specific capacity (257 mAh/g at C/4), > 95% coulombic efficiency, and the lowest charge-transfer resistance with reduced polarization for limited cyclic testing. Our results highlight the critical role of electrolyte-binder interactions in governing electrochemical performance, paving the way for rational materials design strategies for sustainable, flexible, and high-rate Zn-MnO2 energy storage devices.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.est.2026.123729

Published in MRS Communications

Title: 
Utilization of particulate matter from marine engine as a carbonaceous anode for Na-ion batteries

Authors: 

Mariella Anderson, Mesut Eryigit, Mehedi H. Himel, Stephen B. Cronin & Ö. Özgür Çapraz

Abstract:

Maritime transport generates substantial amounts of carbon emissions and particulate matter (PM 2.5) particles waste, which is considered as abundant industrial waste. This study presents repurposing the PM as an anode for Li and Na-ion batteries. Structure and morphology properties of the PM particles were characterized with Raman spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Cyclic voltammetry analysis at various rates indicated a pseudocapacitive charge storage mechanism in the annealed PM electrode, with diffusive contributions dominating at lower scan rates. This study provides insight for waste valorization by repurposing of PM particles from heavy fuel oil into electrochemical energy storage applications.

https://doi.org/10.1557/s43579-026-01012-y

Preprint Published in ChemRxiv

Title: 
Evidencing Fast and Reversible Proton Insertion of a Metastable Bilayered Tungsten Oxide

Authors: 

Noah P. Holzapfel, Saeed Saeed, Alan Ferris, Ruocun Wang, Naresh C. Osti, Eugene Mamontov, Bret Marckx, Ö. Özgür Çapraz, and Veronica Augustyn

Abstract:

Materials that exhibit fast and reversible electrochemical modulation of properties such as electronic conductivity, optical absorption, and volume are of interest for electrochromic, neuromorphic, and actuator switching technologies. Here, we report on the rapid first-order phase transition during proton-insertion coupled electron transfer (PICET) in a metastable bilayered tungsten oxide hydrate (H2W2O7). We utilize quasi-elastic neutron scattering measurements to gain insights into the structural water content and dynamics. We employ operando electrochemical X-ray diffraction and optical microscopy to track changes in structure and color during PICET. X-ray diffraction results reveal that H2W2O7 has a rapid first-order structural transition characterized by the loss of octahedral tilting and the relaxation of geometric distortions within the inorganic layers. Operando stress measurements during electrochemical polarization reveal that the phase transition coincides with rapid mechanical deformation. Optical microscopy shows a reversible two-step color change concurrent with the structural transition, from transparent to blue to gold. These discrete optical regimes correspond to changes in electronic conductivity. Our results show that H2W2O7 is a promising material for electrochemical switching technologies.

https://doi.org/10.26434/chemrxiv.15005668/v1

As we get ready for the upcoming Fall semester, we’re excited to share an opportunity to get involved with CWIT's K-12 Recruitment and Engagement program. We're looking for passionate CWIT Scholars and Affiliates to serve as K-12 Ambassadors for the 2026–2027 academic year!

As a K-12 Ambassador, you’ll play a key role in inspiring K-12 students, especially girls and students from underrepresented groups, to explore their interests in technology, engineering, and computing. You'll also help showcase UMBC and our CWIT program.

What You’ll Do as a K-12 Ambassador:

• CWIT is proud to be a recipient of the Hrabowski Innovation Fund, expanding our K-12 outreach to more Baltimore City students! You will have the opportunity to join our growing K-12 Ambassador Program to help launch new initiatives, inspire future STEM leaders, and make a meaningful impact in our community.  
• Assist with fun, engaging computing and engineering activities for K-12 students.
• Co-host virtual or in-person events that promote CWIT and UMBC to high schoolers.
• Support and participate in events planned by CWIT staff and K-12 Leads.

Application Deadline: September 6, 2026

No interview is required, just be sure to clearly highlight your interests and experience in the form! You’ll receive training and resources to help you successfully engage with K-12 students.

2026-2027 K-12 Ambassador Application

Thank you and we hope you’ll consider applying! If you have any questions, please reach out to CWIT Assistant Director, Jor'Danna Davis at jabdavis@umbc.edu.

We are excited to share this important update with the UMBC community!

As part of our continued growth, evolution, and commitment to fostering an accessible and inclusive campus environment for individuals with disabilities, the offices of Student Disability Services (SDS) and Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) have officially unified under a new name: the Office of Disability Access & Resources (DAR).

While our name has changed, our mission remains the same: to promote equitable access, opportunity, and participation; to remove barriers; and to co-create an inclusive campus where every Retriever with a disability can succeed. This new name better reflects the work of a unified office that supports students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities in fully participating in all that UMBC has to offer.

The Office of Disability Access & Resources remains dedicated to providing accommodations, assistive technology support, accessibility guidance, consultation and training, and disability-related resources that not only make access possible but also empowers individuals to fully participate in the UMBC experience. We will continue partnering with the campus community to advance accessibility, strengthen inclusive practices, promote universal design, and ensure that equitable access remains at the forefront of everything we do.

For students, this means the same trusted support and dedicated team will continue to assist you throughout your academic journey. For faculty and staff, we remain a resource for accessibility questions, collaboration, and guidance in creating inclusive learning and working environments. We will also continue to provide workplace accommodations and support for UMBC employees with disabilities.

New Name. Same Dedicated Team. Same Commitment to Access and Inclusion.

We are grateful for the continued partnership of the UMBC community and look forward to this next chapter of transformation as the Office of Disability Access & Resources. Together, we will continue building a more accessible and inclusive campus where every Retriever has the opportunity to thrive.

Access is Inclusive Excellence.

We are excited to share this important update with the UMBC community!

As part of our continued growth, evolution, and commitment to fostering an accessible and inclusive campus environment for individuals with disabilities, the offices of Student Disability Services (SDS) and Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS) have officially unified under a new name: the Office of Disability Access & Resources (DAR).

While our name has changed, our mission remains the same: to promote equitable access, opportunity, and participation; to remove barriers; and to co-create an inclusive campus where every Retriever with a disability can succeed. This new name better reflects the work of a unified office that supports students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities in fully participating in all that UMBC has to offer.

The Office of Disability Access & Resources remains dedicated to providing accommodations, assistive technology support, accessibility guidance, consultation and training, and disability-related resources that not only make access possible but also empowers individuals to fully participate in the UMBC experience. We will continue partnering with the campus community to advance accessibility, strengthen inclusive practices, promote universal design, and ensure that equitable access remains at the forefront of everything we do.

For students, this means the same trusted support and dedicated team will continue to assist you throughout your academic journey. For faculty and staff, we remain a resource for accessibility questions, collaboration, and guidance in creating inclusive learning and working environments. We will also continue to provide workplace accommodations and support for UMBC employees with disabilities.

New Name. Same Dedicated Team. Same Commitment to Access and Inclusion.

We are grateful for the continued partnership of the UMBC community and look forward to this next chapter of transformation as the Office of Disability Access & Resources. Together, we will continue building a more accessible and inclusive campus where every Retriever has the opportunity to thrive.

Access is Inclusive Excellence.

In late June 2026, GESTAR II researchers, fellows, administration, staff, UMBC interns, and leadership from NASA Goddard's Sciences and Exploration Directorate participated in GESTAR II's third Open House event. Directors welcomed attendees; research posters were on display; scientists, civil servants, and interns discussed various topics; and, lunch was provided. We thank everyone who organized, contributed, presented, and attended to make this a successful celebration of the research discoveries and future goals of GESTAR II members. View the list of research posters (.pdf) presented from various disciplines in the Earth Sciences Division, and enjoy select photos from the day's events!

PHOTO GALLERY

Photo: Yingxi Shi (613/UMBC) presents her poster.

Photo: Paul Newman (614/UMBC) and Belay Demoz (610/UMBC) attend the poster party.

Photo: (L-R) Kamal Aryal (616/UMBC), Charles Ichoku (610/UMBC), and Sujan Neupane (618/UMBC) at the poster party.

Photo: Stephanie Getty, Acting Deputy Director, Sciences & Exploration Directorate, welcomes attendees to the GESTAR II Open House.

Photo: Virginie Buchard (610.1/UMBC) presents her research poster.

Photo: Noura Ed-Dahmany (618/SURA) presents her research poster.

Photo: Magda Kuzmicz-Cieslak (61A/UMBC), Keith Evans (614/UMBC), and Ali Tokay (612/UMBC) mingle at the Open House.

Photo: Kelsey Huelsman (618/ERT) discusses her research poster.

Photo: Daniel Miller (613/UMBC) discusses his research with Santiago Gassó (613/UMCP).

Photo: (L-R) Students Magarida Reis, Enoch Damte (GES, UMBC), Onyema Okafor (GES, UMBC), and Nathaniel Nwoke (GES, UMBC) along with Charles Ichoku stand in front of posters led by doctoral students Mr. Damte and Mr. Okafor.

Photo credit: A. Houghton/UMBC.
Invitation credit: D. Footes/SURA.

The Office of Community and Culture, within the Division of Institutional Equity at UMBC, is excited to continue highlighting and celebrating the many identities, histories, and cultures that enrich our campus community.

We invite students, faculty, staff, campus organizations, and departments to submit events, programs, and ideas for upcoming Cultural Heritage Months.

Link to submission form: https://forms.gle/hG6xUQpxfFvRn2S97

Last year, the Office of Community and Culture highlighted the following Cultural Heritage Months:

Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15)

LGBTQ+ History Month (October)

Disability Identity Awareness Month (October)

Native American Heritage Month (November)

Black History Month (February)

Women's History Month (March)

Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American Heritage Month (May) 

Jewish American Heritage Month (May)

Planning ahead? We encourage early submissions to support collaboration and promotion. To be included in the Cultural Heritage Month calendar and promotional materials, please submit your event or idea at least 15 days before the start of the observance (for example, submit by September 1 for Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month).

We also welcome submissions for any other Cultural Heritage Months or observances not listed above. 

Questions? Contact Deborah Dada at culture@umbc.edu.

Dear Campus Community,

Effective July 1, 2026, the mileage reimbursement rate for authorized business use of Privately Owned Vehicles (POV) has increased to $0.76 per mile.

Please note the following details regarding this update:

• Effective Date: The new rate applies to all mileage incurred on or after July 1, 2026.

• Updated Resources: Relevant travel resources and documentation have been updated on our website. Additionally, the mileage calculator integrated within SAP Concur now reflects the updated rate for all expense reports.

Did You Know? The standard mileage rate is a comprehensive figure determined annually by the IRS based on a study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The $0.76 per mile rate is designed to cover:

• Operating Costs: Gas, oil, tires, maintenance, and repairs.

• Fixed Costs: Insurance, registration fees, and vehicle depreciation.

Because these costs are already included in the per-mile rate, they are not eligible for separate reimbursement. However, related travel expenses like parking and tolls may still be claimed separately.

For any questions, please visit the Travel Services website or contact the team for assistance.

Friendly reminder that OSP's In Person Training (Now Hybrid!) continues August 4th! Sign up can be found HERE. 

See you there!

OSP Training Team

A private room is available for one male in a clean and comfortable shared apartment, ideal for UMBC students or working professionals.

Rent: $575 + utilities (lower cost)
Move-in: August 1

Location: 1345 Stevens Ave, Apt B (Upstairs), Arbutus, MD
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gw2Leu55W4SAHVvk6

Just a 15-minute walk (2–3 minutes by car) to UMBC, 2–3 minutes from the UMBC Arbutus Shuttle Stop (East Drive), and within 4–5 minutes' walking distance to Save A Lot, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Domino's, Punjab Kabab, Halal Kabab & Wings, East Drive Kitchen, Taste Tea, and Hair Cutting Zone.

The apartment includes a shared kitchen and bathroom, fully equipped kitchen with oven, microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher, in-unit washer & dryer, and parking.

If you're interested, please DM me for pictures, videos, or more details, or contact +1 (667) 802-9257 to schedule a visit.

RACK - $20
TABLE - $30
SHELF - $20

Location is very close to UMBC. Need gone ASAP.

Pickup only!

Linden Avenue, Arbutus

Message me at: 667 431 0058