SCGSR - XSD - Strong, Nathanael - 9.28.26

This project investigates how electrochemically inactive “pillar ions” influence intraparticle strain evolution and Na-ion dynamics in layered sodium-ion battery cathodes. During Na-ion (de)intercalation, anisotropic lattice changes can generate heterogeneous strain, dislocations, mosaic domains, and irreversible phase transformations that contribute to capacity degradation. Incorporating ions such as Ca²⁺ or K⁺ between the transition-metal oxide layers may preserve interlayer registry and suppress these degradation pathways, although the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

At the Advanced Photon Source (APS), the student will use micro–X-ray diffraction (µXRD) and Bragg coherent diffraction imaging (BCDI) to compare pillared and non-pillared cathode particles during electrochemical cycling. µXRD will quantify changes in lattice parameters and crystal mosaicity across particle ensembles, while BCDI will reconstruct individual-particle morphology and three-dimensional lattice-displacement and strain fields. X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) will be used to characterize temporal lattice dynamics and examine their relationships with Na-ion redistribution, structural defects, and coherent-domain boundaries.

During the APS residency, the student will collaborate with beamline scientists to prepare and conduct coherent-scattering experiments, refine in situ electrochemical measurement protocols, and analyze diffraction-imaging and correlation datasets. The project will also assess the feasibility of integrating BCDI and XPCS within a common experimental framework, enabling complementary characterization of spatial strain distributions and temporal lattice dynamics. These APS-based studies will establish quantitative relationships among pillar-ion concentration, strain heterogeneity, structural evolution, and Na-ion dynamics.

Education and Experience Requirements

• The entirety of the appointment must be conducted within the United States.

• Must be 18 years or older at the time the appointment begins.

• Applicants must be:

• Currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies at an accredited institution
• Graduated from an accredited institution within the past 3 months; or
• Actively enrolled in a graduate program at an accredited institution.

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