Solar Energy and Storage

The Schlenker group aims to develop a better fundamental understanding of energy materials for more efficient, low-cost energy conversion and storage devices.

Chemical dynamics of electrified interfaces

Our objective is to identify chemical markers at electrode interfaces that affect the performance of energy storage devices by simultaneously coupling electrochemistry with interface-sensitive spectroscopy. Interfacial electrochemical signals are often overwhelmed by signals from bulk processes. We explore electrochemical interface dynamics using tools such as sum-frequency generation to gain a more informed understanding of chemical reactions at battery electrodes.

We develop methodologies such as electrode potential modulated vibrational spectroscopy to understand interfacial electrochemical processes in rechargeable batteries. These in operando spectroscopies allow us to use features like field-dependent changes in vibrational frequency (Stark effects signatures) to unmask the processes that govern interfacial electrochemical phenomena.

The Schlenker group is actively undertaking research to better understand the influence of electrostatics on the interfacial processes that occur during rechargeable battery cycling. Despite huge advances in the field of electrochemical energy storage, the local electric fields at the electrode/electrolyte junctions have yet to be characterized. Using a combination of electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques, we aim to be the first to quantify the magnitude of these fields. Additionally, it is of interest to explore the impact of electrode surface dipole modification on this electrostatic environment. The results of this project will offer new strategies for improving battery performance.