Single Atom Catalysts and Atomic Scale Design of Interface for Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage

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There is a growing awareness that nanotechnology will have a profound impact on energy generation and storage. Dr. Sun will continue to use his expertise in nanotechnology to address critical challenges in fuel cells and solid-state Li batteries but, in next six year, his work will highlight even smaller scales from nano scale to atomic scale in this proposal.     The objective of this proposed proposal is to lead a vigorous research program that builds on atomic layer deposition (ALD) and molecular layer deposition (MLD) techniques for energy applications. This proposal covers fundamental studies in two themes: (i) single atom materials as novel catalyst for proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells; and (ii) atomic scale design and engineering of interface for next-generation all solid-state batteries. An important aspect is to apply various advanced characterization techniques (including in-situ/operando) for the fundamental understanding. The Discovery Grant (DG) supports fundamental studies and basic science while Dr. Sun's other funding supports more applied studies and practical applications.     For PEM fuel cells, cost and durability are two major roadblocks that have to be overcome before the PEMFC system can become economically viable. The cost of Pt-based still accounts for a big percentage of the cost of fuel cells but Pt is still the best catalysts in fuel cells. Therefore, the development of a low cost and stable catalyst with ultra-low Pt loading will provide us the means to reduce the cost and performance gaps towards commercial viability. Single atom catalyst is a very promising choice but its controllable synthesis and stability need to be well addressed. The two specific objectives in this area include: (i) synthesis of single-atom or cluster Pt-based catalysts by ALD, and (ii) stabilization of single atom catalyst by design of stabilizers and support of the catalysts. It is expected that the single atom catalysts will be ideal materials for providing a higher catalytic performance, high catalyst utilization, high durability, and a longer fuel cell operational life.     All solid-state batteries (SSBs) have been attracting more than ever research and industrial interests recently. The advantages of SSBs are safer and higher energy density. However, there are still some key challenges including interfacial issues and metal protections in SSBs. The two specific objectives are: (i) stabilizing the interface between electrodes and electrolytes for solid-state Li batteries; and (ii) protection of Li/Na metals for all solid-state batteries. It is expected that the outcome of this project will go towards aiding the production of stable and long-life solid-state batteries.     The successful completion of the program will be of benefit to Canadian industry, and to the global nanotechnology community by accelerating the fuel cell and solid-state battery commercialization process while simultaneously reducing environmental pollution.