Oxygen exchange on modified oxide surfaces

In the pursuit of sustainable and renewable energy solutions, materials science plays a critical role in driving the development of new technologies and devices. Among the most important technologies for future energy storage and conversion are batteries and fuel cells. Both rely on electrochemical reactions on and in mixed ionic and electronic conducting (MIEC) oxides. A crucial reaction for fuel cells but also for batteries is the oxygen exchange reaction (OER). Oxygen from the atmosphere is incorporated at high temperatures into a mixed conducting oxide in the air electrode of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). In contrast, for lithium ion batteries (LiBs), oxygen loss from a mixed conducting oxide at room temperature has been identified as a major driver for performance degradation. While both of these processes have been studied extensively, they have largely been explored independent from each other and in rather isolated communities. Building on our previous research on oxygen exchange on SOFC materials, we propose that concepts and strategies developed in the SOFC world can be effectively translated to the LiB world and offer a completely new approach to understanding and controlling oxygen exchange. In this project, we want to test this hypothesis on the example of surface modifications. Surface modifications, often involving the addition of tiny amounts of different materials to alter surface properties, are employed in both SOFCs and LiBs. It is important to emphasize here, that the goals of the modification strategies are fundamentally opposite for the two technologies. In SOFCs, modifications are designed to enhance oxygen incorporation, while in LiBs, coatings aim to suppress oxygen release and improve stability against oxygen loss. Recent advances have shed light on how surface modifications influence oxygen exchange in SOFCs and how to systematically design, improve, and also degrade surfaces. In this project, we want to further deepen this understanding and translate these insights into the world of LiBs. We want to explore whether similar systematic principles apply to oxygen release from modified LiB materials at lower temperatures. If successful, this project could offer a completely new perspective on oxygen loss on LiBs materials, leveraging knowledge from the SOFC world to improve coating strategies and enhance the stability of future batteries. Beyond these specific goals, our research aims to build bridges between the SOFC and LiB research communities, facilitating the exchange of new ideas and concepts. By bridging these two fields, we hope to unlock new opportunities for innovation and advance our understanding of both energy technologies.