Zhiwei

My team investigates new battery chemistries that can overcome the theoretical limits of conventional lithium-ion batteries today. In particular, we study next-generation sodium- and magnesium-ion batteries which can potentially offer higher energy densities at lower cost. Magnesium-ion batteries are also much safer as they do not form dendrites that lead to short circuiting.

Using concepts from materials chemistry and physics, we design new battery materials, understand structure-property-performance relationships, and construct battery prototypes. We have developed promising cathodes, anodes and electrolytes for sodium- and magnesium-ion batteries that can enable high specific capacity, high Coulombic efficiency and long cycle life.

At the same time, we also apply artificial intelligence in battery management systems to predict the state of charge, state of health and remaining useful life of batteries. The ability to predict the health and lifetime of batteries accurately in real time has significant implications on battery production, management and optimization in the future.