Advanced Formulation of Composite Electrodes and Integration of Polymer Electrolytes for the Development of All-Solid-State Molecular Anion-Ion Batteries in Pouch Cells

In the context of the energy transition, the development of new electrochemical energy storage technologies is of major importance. Molecular anion-based batteries represent a promising alternative to conventional systems due to their intrinsic potential to eliminate the need for critical metals.
This PhD project, which will complement four ongoing doctoral projects, will focus on the optimization of active materials as well as composite electrodes, both positive and negative. Particular attention will be paid to the formulation of electrode slurries (adjustment of active material particle size distribution, selection of solvent, polymer binder, electronically conductive carbon, and optimization of component ratios), as well as to the coating process onto current collectors and the selection of the latter (novel metal-free or low-metal-content current collectors with surface functionalization).

In a second stage, the integration of solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) will be investigated through two complementary approaches: (i) electrode impregnation using a liquid precursor followed by in situ polymerization, and (ii) the use of this precursor as a solvent for electrode formulation. These strategies will enable improved control over electrode/electrolyte interfaces and ionic conduction.

Finally, the developed systems will be integrated into full cells (coin cells followed by pouch cells) in order to evaluate their cycling performance, power capability, and thermal stability.

This PhD will be carried out within the collaborative SONIC project of the PEPR Batteries program (France 2030), involving four ongoing PhD projects across four national laboratories with strong interactions.