ABSTRACT:

A variety of ions can intercalate into graphite by electrochemical methods, leading to the formation of graphite intercalation compounds (GICs). One of the most well-known devices utilizing GICs is the negative electrode of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The formation reaction of Li-GICs in LIBs is highly sensitive to the choice of solvents. This reaction is reversible in conventional carbonate electrolytes, whereas destructive Li+–solvent cointercalation occurs in many other solvent-based electrolytes. Developing novel electrolytes for improving LIBs had long been challenging because factors dominating Li+ intercalation were not fully identified. Recently, we demonstrated that the electrolyte Li+ chemical potential (mLi+) is a novel quantitative descriptor of Li+ intercalation behavior. Specifically, solvent cointercalation is generally suppressed in high-mLi+ electrolytes, such as highly concentrated electrolytes or weakly coordinating electrolytes. This talk will introduce our recent work on manipulating the formation reactions of several GICs via tuning electrolyte-related governing factors.

BIO:

Dr. Yasuyuki Kondo obtained his PhD in Graduate School of Engineering at Kyoto University. Thereafter, he joined Center of Innovation (COI) Program at Kyoto University as a Program-Specific Assistant Professor in 2019. Within COI, he led the project developing the high-voltage aqueous supercapacitors under COI Feasible Study Program. He currently studies novel materials for energy storage/conversion devices in SANKEN at Osaka University as an Assistant Professor. He is leading projects in national and international programs, such as Intensive Support Program for Young Promising Researchers of New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization, and ISPF - International Collaboration Awards 2025, The Royal Society.