Towards Sustainable and High-Performance Sodium-Ion Batteries: Development of Anode Materials Based on Binary Metal Phosphides Confined in Multi-Doped Carbon Matrices

ongoing

The project aims to advance sodium-ion battery (SIB) technology through the development of innovative, sustainable electrode materials. Its primary focus is on creating binary carbon-confined metal phosphide (MPs@C) nanoparticles to be used as efficient anode materials for SIBs. This initiative addresses 2 critical challenges, the sustainable fabrication of electrode materials and the enhancement of their electrochemical performance. The innovative fabrication technique involves the pyrolysis of heterometallic organophosphine frameworks (Organic P-ligands linking two types of metal ions within a framework structure) as templates to produce binary MPs@C, avoiding the environmentally hazardous phosphorization step associated with the traditional methods. The project leverages an interdisciplinary approach, combining the expertise of the postdoctoral fellow in synthetic inorganic chemistry, the knowledge of the host supervisor in electrochemistry and nanostructured materials, and the experience of Glantreo, an industrial partner specializing in custom nanomaterials development. The research plan includes close collaboration between academic and industrial partners, Glantreo Ltd. (6 months of non-academic placement), to ensure practical application and industry relevance. The expected impact on the fellow includes the acquisition of advanced research skills, enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration experience, improved transferable skills, and the development of a strong understanding of industry-driven research, preparing the fellow for a leading role in the field of sustainable energy technologies. SUS-BATT's impact is multifaceted, contributing to scientific knowledge, economic growth, and societal benefits by advancing sustainable energy storage solutions. The project aims to reduce the cost and environmental impact of battery production, supporting the transition to cleaner energy technologies.