At the forefront of advancing lithium-ion battery performance, Mike Leopold from Research Center Jülich GmbH focuses on developing high-voltage electrolyte formulations compatible with LNMO cathodes and SiGr anodes, her work is essential in pushing the boundaries of energy storage technology. In this interview, we delve into Leopold’s contributions, the collaborative efforts within the HighSpin consortium, and the project’s vision for a more sustainable and innovative future.
- Your Institution
Research Center Jülich GmbH - Your full name
Mike Leopold - What is your role in the project?
Development of a high voltage electrolyte formulation which is compatible with LNMO and SiGr. For this purpose, a systematic screening based on previously defined criteria at electrolyte and laboratory cell level will be carried out to identify lead electrolyte formulations. - What research are you conducting at your Institution and how is it applied in the HighSpin project?
Our institute focuses on the development of novel and advancement of existing functional electrolytes for lithium and sodium-based battery applications and the analysis of interfaces and interphases with different complementary methods. In the HighSpin project, we are responsible for the electrolyte development and interphase characterisation. - How do you collaborate with other partners in the HighSpin project to achieve your goals?
We receive the cathode and anode materials for the electrolyte development from AIT and SAFT and to analyse the electrolyte electrode interfaces and concomitant phenomena together with CICE. We recommend electrolyte formulations for iteration 1 and 2 cell chemistry. - How is your institution benefiting from participating in the HighSpin project?
International scientific exchange with other institutes and industry will enable further R&D of novel materials and optimized formulations and impact other research project applications. Integration into a European consortium promotes international visibility of German research landscape and economic prospects of success for the companies active in this field. - How do you envision the results of HighSpin contributing to a more sustainable world?
Development of the LNMO||Si/C cell chemistry with maximum performance. - Looking to the future, what impact do you think the HighSpin project will have on the industry and society as a whole?
With the aim of developing commercial Co-free LNMO||SiGr batteries and introducing this technology into automotive and aerospace applications, HighSpin aims to further develop the competencies of the European battery industry (with a focus on Gen 3b chemistry and technology).