High-resolution probing of nano-scale graphene/metal interfaces for electrochemical applications

在设计关键应用中使用纳米结构需要理解它们的结构-性质-功能关系。定制结构的各个组件的能力以及对界面对宏观性能影响的理解是提高其性能的关键。该项目旨在通过界面的结构和功能优化来提高加拿大3 M公司开发的新型石墨烯基纳米复合材料导体的粘附力和结构稳定性。本计画将探讨以下几个问题：（1）发展复合材料的组成、结构与界面结合的全面性;（2）这些样品的黏着性与其结构细节的相关性;（3）功能电极结构的化学与热稳定性的测定与功能化的可能性 用于改善电化学应用的粘附性，其中在各种条件下需要结构的各个部件之间的牢固的永久结合。 博士Goncharova的团队将使用高分辨率界面和表面探针，如卢瑟福背散射（RBS），弹性反冲检测分析（ERDA），X射线光电子能谱（XPS），动态二次离子质谱（西姆斯）和原子力显微镜（AFM）。这些结果将与粘附测试的程度进行比较，例如剪切和断裂的机械阻力，以及用电化学阻抗谱（EIS）测量的界面电阻抗。该项目将在包括锂离子电池在内的非常重要的电能存储应用领域为加拿大工业创造新的竞争力。

Using nanostructures in design-critical applications requires an understanding of their structure- propertyfunction relationship. The ability to tailor individual components of the structure and an understanding of the impact of the interface on macroscopic properties are key to improve their performance. This project is aimed at improving adhesion and structural stability of novel graphene-based nanocomposite conductors developed by 3M, Canada through structural and functional optimization of their interfaces. Several issues will be addressed in this project: (1) Development of a comprehensive picture of composition, structure and bonding across the interface; (2) Correlation of these samples' adhesion of to their structural details; (3) Determination of chemical and thermal stability of the functional electrode structures and the possibility to functionalize them for improvement of adhesion for electrochemical applications, where strong permanent bonding between individual components of the structure is desired at various conditions. Dr. Goncharova's team will use high-resolution interface and surface probes, such as Rutherford backscattering (RBS), elastic recoil detection analysis (ERDA), X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), dynamic secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). These results will be compared with the degree of adherence tests, such as mechanical resistance to shear and fracture, as well as interfacial electrical impedance measured with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The project will create new competence for Canadian industry in the very important field of electrical energy storage applications, including Li-ion batteries.