Studying Diffusion Pathways using Single Crystal NMR

Lithium-ion batteries have become indispensable in our daily lives powering everything from smartphones to laptops and electric vehicles. To make these energy storage devices even safer and more efficient, researchers around the world are developing new materials that enable faster and more reliable transport of electrical charge. One promising approach is the use of solid-state electrolytes. Unlike conventional batteries, solid-state batteries contain no liquid components making them less prone to fire hazards and more environmentally friendly. This research project investigates how lithium ions move through solid-state materials. We focus on a class of materials known as LLZO garnets, which show great potential for use in next-generation solid-state batteries due to their ability to conduct lithium ions efficiently. To examine how the ions move inside these materials, we use a specialized method called nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, which allows us to observe ion motion on the atomic scale. From this perspective, we aim to understand which material properties govern ion transport knowledge that could enable the design of materials with even faster conductivity. A key part of our project is the use of single crystals highly ordered materials with a regular atomic structure. These crystals provide ideal conditions for studying the link between structure and ion movement. As part of the project, we are developing a custom-built NMR probe to measure ion motion in different directions within the crystal. This will help us understand how subtle changes in the crystal for example, by introducing small amounts of other elements such as aluminum or tantalum influence ion mobility. Our findings will lay the scientific groundwork for the development of more powerful and safer batteries. At the same time, the project will deepen our understanding of how atoms and ions move within materials knowledge that is essential for the next generation of energy technologies.