Development of novel magnetic resonance techniques for measuring ion dynamics in functioning devices

Our research focuses on pioneering advanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques that directly measure ion and solvent dynamics within functioning energy storage devices. Traditional methods, such as pulsed field gradient (PFG) NMR, are useful for measuring diffusion but cannot capture directional ion motion under the influence of an electric field. To address this, we are developing and advancing electrophoretic NMR, a technique that directly measures ion velocities. By extending electrophoretic NMR to enable spatiotemporal measurements under real operating conditions, we aim to study devices in situ and in operando within the NMR spectrometer.

By mapping how ion transport behaves across various parts of these systems under electrochemical conditions, we aim to provide deeper insights into performance limitations, particularly for fast-charging applications. These new methodologies offer unprecedented views of ion movement, laying a methodological foundation for improvements to high-performance battery technologies.

Selected Publications

Dynamic Heterogeneity of Solvent Motion and Ion Transport in Concentrated Electrolytes
Fang, C.; Halat, D. M.; Balsara, N. P.; Wang, R.. J. Phys. Chem. B. 127, 1803 (2023) [DOI]

Electric-Field-Induced Spatially Dynamic Heterogeneity of Solvent Motion and Cation Transference in Electrolytes
Halat, D. M.; Fang, C.; Hickson, D.; Mistry, A.; Reimer, J. A.; Balsara, N. P.; Wang, R.. Phys. Rev. Lett. 128, 198002 (2022) [DOI]