PhD Position in Lithium Isotopic Tracing for Nanocharacterization of Li-ion Batteries

This PhD project focuses on understanding the degradation mechanisms of silicon-based negative electrodes in lithium-ion batteries. The research aims to characterize the formation and evolution of passivation layers by tracking lithium ion mobility and trapping. The candidate will employ a multi-technique approach, combining solid-state NMR, XPS, SIMS, and electrochemical measurements to gain qualitative and quantitative insights. This work is part of the ANR CALISToM project, involving collaboration between the Institut des matériaux de Nantes Jean Rouxel, CEA-LITEN, and LIST.

• Prepare and cycle silicon-based electrodes for battery testing.
• Perform electrochemical measurements to evaluate cell performance.
• Conduct solid-state NMR (7Li and 6Li) experiments to study lithium mobility.
• Execute surface analysis using XPS, SIMS, and scanning electron microscopy.
• Analyze isotopic ratios in electrode cross-sections using high-resolution SIMS.
• Collaborate with research teams at CEA-LITEN and LIST.
• Document research findings and contribute to project reports for the ANR CALISToM initiative.