Topic 01-21 : 2-Dimmensional MXene materials for high power energy storage devices

MXenes are two-dimensional materials with the formula of M(n+1)XnTx, where M represents an early transition metal(s), X is either carbon and/or nitrogen, Tx stands for surface terminations (−OH, −O, −F and so on) that are introduced during the chemical preparation. Typically, MXenes are prepared by selective etching of the A elements (group IIIA or IVA) from the MAX phase precursors via HF containing solution. Thanks to their tunable properties (surface chemistry, conductivity, two-dimensional structure), MXenes are found promising for electrochemical energy storage, including metal ion batteries and electrochemical capacitors (ECs).

In this work we will i) investigate the synthesis of other MXenes by this new molten salt method by playing with the MAX precursor and Lewis acid composition, ii) study the influence of the surface groups by using other anions than Cl for the Lewis acid and iii) prepare delaminated samples by a careful systematic approach to push further ahead the capacity and power performance in LiB electrolytes.
Those electrolytes will be prepared in Prof Andrea Balducci's lab and the PhD student will make secondment in Prof Balducci's lab at Jena University to learn the basics of electrolyte synthesis and test the new MXene materials in these innovative electrolytes. The PhD student will also spend time in Nantes University (T. Brousse's lab), to synthesize positive electrodes based on specific synthesis route developed there (see the PhD proposal from Prof. Brousse).

The whole mobility should be about one year total within the three years of the PhD.

Contact

PhD Supervisor : Patrice Simon (simon@chimie.ups-tlse.fr)