Non-Corrosive Polymer Electrolyte with Preferential Al3+ Transport for Rechargeable Aluminum Batteries

Rechargeable aluminum batteries (RABs) are extremely promising due to inherent safety, high theoretical volumetric energy density (4X of Li), and low cost of Al metal (10X cheaper than Li).

RABs can play a crucial role in ensuring and securing an affordable and safer EU energy supply in line with the EU Green Deal. However, the development of RABs is hindered by a lack of practical electrolytes.

The current state-of-the-art (SoA) ionic-liquid electrolytes are extremely corrosive, moisture sensitive, expensive, and do not offer Al3+- cationic species.

Relying on the synergy between the researchers background and the host's expertise, the NC-PEPA project introduces an innovative and beyond the SoA concept to develop a non-corrosive polymer electrolyte with preferential Al3+ cationic transport with high ionic conductivity. Objectives of the project address overall issues of the SoA electrolytes.

This project will have a significant scientific and societal impact as NC-PEPA electrolyte promises the development of safer, affordable, and high-energy density RABs that will be pivotal to clean and green energy transition. Additionally, it contributes to the enhancement of the EUs scientific excellence.

Being the leader of the energy storage materials subgroup within the Multifunctional Nanocomposite Group at IMDEA and with a proven track of contribution in the field, Dr. Pendashteh A. is the most appropriate supervisor.

The host institute (IMDEA) is also acknowledged as one of the best research institutes in Spain, with proven experience in developing materials and systems for batteries and immense experience in Marie Curie fellows hosting and project management.

The project will advance the researchers professional development and career growth by providing multidisciplinary skills along with access to management and related training that will equip the researcher to achieve his long-term goal of establishing a research group focused on developing sustainable batteries.