This PhD project will focus on the development of Online Electrochemical Mass Spectrometry (OEMS) method for operando analysis of gases evolved during operation of Li-ion batteries (LIBs). LIBs represent the most relevant energy storage devices for the wide commercialization of electric vehicles. However, among the most important challenges for modern LIBs, cyclability and safety are the key issues that need to be addressed to increase the driving range and mitigate numerous hazardous risks. In this regard, there is a huge demand for efficient and representative characterization methods capable of predicting aging and safety performances of new battery materials and cells in a reliable manner based on relatively short experimental duration. OEMS is such a powerful and versatile method providing information on mechanisms of chemical reactions taking place in LIBs at different experimental conditions.

The main objectives of the present project are: 1) identification of a few key parameters affecting the gas evolution in LIBs quantitatively and qualitatively during OEMS measurements at different scales; 2) unraveling the interplay between the key parameters and proposing new cell architectures or test protocols to tackle issues; 3) understanding the correlations between safety, aging tests and OEMS results obtained for the same/similar Li-ion battery.

The project will take place at The French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) located in Grenoble, France. CEA is widely known for its technological and scientific excellences, as well as for its outstanding equipment resources and its expertise in the research and development of greener energy, notably in batteries. This center offers a great opportunity to join a dynamic team and to conduct a high-level research in a multidisciplinary environment. Additionally, there might be a possibility to take part in experiments using synchrotron radiation at ESRF and to explore battery chemistries beyond LIBs. We are looking for a highly motivated and pro-active candidate to start the Ph.D internship in autumn 2024 for 3 years. Good oral and written English skills are required. The student will conduct thorough literature reviews, publish his/her scientific findings in high-level peer-reviewed journals and communicate them at international conferences. The experience acquired by the student during his/her Ph.D study will be undoubtedly of high interest for further employment. Health insurance is provided for foreigners. Grenoble’s area is a famous hiking and skiing playground in the heart of the French Alps.