NPI involved in research on advanced battery technologies

18. 03. 2025

Thanks to strong links with the German Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Centre, Charles Hervoches of the Department of Neutron and Ion Methods at the Nuclear Physics Institute (NPI) has participated in research on solid-state battery electrolytes funded by the US Department of Energy (DoE). The results of the study, coordinated by the US Argonne National Laboratory, have been published in ACS Material Letters.

Using the MEREDIT neutron diffractometer developed at NPI, Charles Hervoches studied changes in the crystal structure of LLZO material doped with aluminium (Al) or gallium (Ga) both before and after reaction with metallic lithium.

LLZO (lithium lanthanum zirconium oxide, Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂) is considered one of the most promising materials for the production of solid electrolytes for future batteries.

"I have been given a great opportunity to contribute to the advancement of battery technologies," said Charles Hervoches, who is originally from France.

The results of the partial research carried out at the NPI showed that the crystal structure of LLZO doped with aluminium (Al) maintained a stable and highly conductive cubic structure even after contact with lithium. In contrast, LLZO doped with gallium (Ga) transformed into a less conductive tetragonal structure.

The development of solid electrolytes is particularly important because they are more efficient and safer than the liquid electrolytes currently in use. Their development is particularly important for the automotive industry, as the use of more efficient batteries in cars would mean longer range and faster charging. However, the main disadvantage of solid electrolytes is their complex production process, which results in high manufacturing costs.

The MEREDIT diffractometer uses neutrons produced by the LVR-15 nuclear reactor operated by CVŘ s.r.o. for its measurements.

NPI involved in research on advanced battery technologies

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