On December 5th, NIOM scientist Amund Ruud successfully defended his doctoral thesis at the University of Oslo. The thesis Novel Materials and Operando Studies for Lithium-Ion Batteries explores new materials for lithium-ion batteries.
– Lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized today’s society, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be improved, Ruud says.
The thesis
The thesis deals with the development and detailed investigations of new materials for lithium-ion batteries. A major part of this work has been to investigate the electrochemical performance of two new anode materials; BiVO4 and Bi2(MoO4)3.
– We have used operando X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to identify changes in structure and oxidation state of these materials during cycling, Ruud says.
Furthermore, BiVO4 has been investigated operando with pair distribution function analysis computed tomography (PDF – CT). This has allowed us to identify several nano phases in the size regime 1 – 10 nm emerging during battery cycling.
– In addition, the thesis includes the development of new processes for atomic layer deposition (ALD) as a step towards thin film coatings for improved cycling performance and safety of electrode materials, Ruud explains.
Working at NIOM
Ruud’s field of expertise is of great interest to NIOM, both for research and testing purposes.
– With a background from inorganic chemistry and materials characterization, I work towards understanding dental materials on a fundamental level. One field of interest is how mechanical and chemical stress alters the crystal structure of dental restorations, Ruud says.
NIOMs CEO Jon E. Dahl says he is very pleased that Ruud continues his research career at NIOM.
– Ruud’s competence in materials science is very valuable for our research on zirconia and other ceramic materials, Dahl says.
