Rechargeable batteries encompass complex, interrelated phenomena that span multiple areas of chemistry and physics, requiring a multidimensional learning approach. This course offers a comprehensive exploration of electrochemical theories related to electrolytes and their interactions with electrodes. It will cover the fundamentals of ionics, ion interactions, ion transport, and various interfacial phenomena. The primary goal is to provide a practical understanding of electrolyte behavior, grounded in a strong grasp of their fundamental properties.

Students are expected to have the “basic knowledge” about General Chemistry, Organic chemistry, and electrochemistry.

1) Electrolytes, Interfaces, and Interphases by Kang Xu
2) Electrochemical Systems by John Newman & Nitash P. Balsara

This course covers the chemical and electrochemical properties of liquid electrolytes, grounded in a comprehensive understanding of ion dissociation and transport mechanisms. It also offers an exploration of the interaction and interplay between electrolytes and electrodes, alongside an overview of design strategies for conventional and next-generation electrolytes.
1. In Bulk Electrolytes: Ionics
2. Quantification of Ion–Ion Interaction
3. Electrolytes for Li-ion batteries
4. Ion Transport in Electrolytes
5. When Electrolyte Meets Electrodes: Interface
6. When an Electrode Operates Beyond Electrolyte Stability Limits: Interphase
7. Ion Solvation
8. Student presentations

Lecture & individual presentation