Institute for Applied Materials - Energy Storage Systems (IAM-ESS)
In
the frame of the Excellence Cluster POLiS you
will address critical gaps in understanding the surface reactivity of alkali
metal-based electrodes under realistic battery operating conditions. By
leveraging NAP-XPS, the project seeks to provide detailed insights into surface
chemistry and its implications for battery performance.For this purpose, you will explore in situ the
influence of oxidizing and reducing conditions on the surface of alkali
metal-based electrodes during aging at open-circuit voltage and cycling under
representative battery conditions. Specifically, you will investigate the effects
of electrode surface treatment methods on the solid electroyte interphase (SEI)
characteristics developed during open-circuit voltage, and on the cycle life of
the electrodes. By simulating realistic battery conditions—including exposure
to gaseous reactants such as oxygen, water vapor, and carbon dioxide—using
laboratory-based near-ambient pressure XPS (NAP-XPS), you will gain detailed
insight into alkali metal surface reactivity and its implications for battery
stability and performance.Your activities in detail:Investigate operando the solid electrolyte
interphase (SEI) formation processes and their impact on battery performanceDevelop optimized surface treatment protocols to
enhance electrode performance and longevityDevelop dedicated cell to perform operando
NAP-XPS measurement on electrode in operating conditionsEstablish a foundational framework for future research
in alkali metal chemistry and its role in energy storage technologies.Coordination of the work with
internal and external partnersThe position offers the possibility of a doctorate alongside your work
Salary
Salary category 13 TV-L, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements.
Contract duration
3 years
Application up to
23.07.2025
Contact person in line-management
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Anass Benayad, E-Mail: anass.benayad@kit.edu.
