Ishtiaq, Shadab

► Research

Mechanochemical Processing of Alkali Metal Transition Metal Compounds and Silicon-Based Materials for Ion Storage

Mechanochemistry provides an energy efficient and solvent free approach to synthesis and activate functional material. Recently, mechanochemical methods such as high energy ball milling (HEBM) are employed to prepare and modify different inorganic compounds for applications in sodium and lithium-ion batteries. By reducing particle size and enabling phase transformation, mechanochemistry can improve capacity utilization and ion transport compared to conventional high-temperature routes. This project will focus on promising electrode materials such as silicon/carbon (Si/C) composite, alkali metal transition metal phosphates and oxides. Major focus will be to study key milling parameters, e.g. milling time, milling media, ball to powder ratio and how these parameters influence the structural and electrochemical properties. Mechanochemical activation, intercalation and composite formation will be systematically studied to develop a correlation between ion storage behavior, microstructure and defect chemistry. Overall goal is to develop a fundamental understanding of ball milling effects on battery material and analyze their electrochemical properties to design high performance energy storage systems via sustainable routes.