Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Flexible and wearable electronics are leading the trend of next-generation electronic products. One major challenge identified in this field is how to build highly safe and flexible energy power supplies that possess high energy density and long cycling life. Limited by insufficient energy density (200-250 Wh/kg) and safety concerns (e.g., causing fire, especially under bending conditions), state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) remain far from satisfactory to meet wearable electronics needs. Rechargeable zinc-air batteries (ZABs) are among the most promising next-generation power systems due to their high theoretical energy density (1218 Wh/kg, 5 times that of conventional LIBs), low-cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. However, the development of flexible ZABs for practical applications still faces grand challenges including insufficient energy efficiency and cycle life, and flexible adaptability to deformation. This research program aims to synthesize highly functional and flexible battery components, as well as investigate/study their interfaces, altogether, to improve the performance and lifetime of flexible ZABs. Over the next five years, the proposed research program will focus primarily on the following objectives: O1) To synthesize highly efficient and stable bi-functional catalysts and fabricate flexible air cathodes; O2) To explore strategies to prevent Zn dendrite growth and surface passivation and fabricate flexible zinc anodes; O3) To synthesize highly ionic-conductive solid electrolyte membranes and to study the electrolyte-electrode interface. The long-term objective of this research program is to develop highly safe, low-cost, high energy density, long-lasting and flexible ZAB devices for use as power supplies in next-generation portable and wearable electronics. The new knowledge and technology outcome from this multifaceted research program will greatly benefit both flexible ZABs and other flexible clean energy devices/systems, such as lithium batteries, zinc-ion batteries, supercapacitors, etc. It will enhance multiple collaborations with academia and industry, and promote the technology transfer to the related industry partners, booming the development of flexible batteries for electronics and power systems, and benefiting the health, environment, economy, and society in Canada. Beyond its scientific, technical, and industrial impacts, this research program will train 10 HQPs in the multidiscipline fields of nanomaterials and nanotechnology, in-situ monitoring techniques, and energy device design and fabrication, providing them with an equal, diverse, and inclusive environment.