Identifying interface-dominated behavior and cell configuration effects on the electrochemistry of calcium foil anodes

Fundamental research and practical assembly of rechargeable calcium (Ca)-based batteries will benefit from the ability to use Ca metal anodes to provide a sufficient Ca²⁺ reservoir for full cell electrochemistry. When Ca metal comes in contact with an organic electrolyte, a native solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) forms which dramatically alters the electrode, and in some instances fully passivates it. Considering that Ca deposition and dissolution is widely believed to be a surface-film-controlled process, understanding the role of the interface on Ca electrochemistry is paramount. This study examines the electrochemical signatures of several Ca interfaces in a current benchmark electrolyte, Ca(BH₄)₂ in tetrahydrofuran (THF). Preparation methodologies of Ca foils are presented, along with Ca plating/stripping through either pre-existing, native calcium hydride (CaH₂), or pre-formed calcium fluoride (CaF₂) interfaces.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2021

Author dc:creator

• Melemed, Aaron M.(Aaron Max)

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Betar M. Gallant.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• MIT theses may be protected by copyright. Please reuse MIT thesis content according to the MIT Libraries Permissions Policy, which is available through the URL provided.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/130862

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/130862