Next-generation materials for rechargeable batteries

By Paul Braun on 09/11/2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in 1611 Titan Dr., Rantoul, IL 61866

Join Paul Braun of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as he presents in person at the Fall 2025 Kent Seminar Series Thursday, September 11 from 2-3 p.m. (CT).

The Fall 2025 semester is set to feature 13 presentations, each addressing a topic related to electrification in mobility. 

Pizza and soft drinks will be provided beginning at 1:30 p.m. in the ICT Classroom. 

All presentations will be held on Zoom, but some speakers will present in person at ICT.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://go.illinois.edu/KentSeminar

Meeting ID: 881 1157 1273
Passcode: 462549

Abstract and Bio

Conventional rechargeable batteries use electrodes made of mixed materials and liquid electrolytes, limiting energy density and charge and discharge performance. Our research explores strategies to form dense, single-material electrodes that enable higher-voltage operation and greater energy density. These electrodes are compatible with both liquid and emerging solid-state electrolytes. We have fabricated liquid-based and solid-state batteries using these electrodes and evaluated their performance.

Braun is director of the Materials Research Laboratory, the Grainger Distinguished Chair in Engineering, and a professor of materials science and engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His research focuses on electrochemical energy storage, advanced optics and control of heat flow. He earned a bachelor’s degree with distinction from Cornell University and a doctorate in materials science and engineering from Illinois.