We are developing safer and higher-performance energy devices by using complex materials of ionic liquid and polymer materials.
In this laboratory, we research and develop a new polymer electrolyte which combines ionic liquid having relatively high ionic-conductivity, non-flammability, chemical stability and the living radical polymerization which is able to control fine structure, and also develop a new energy devices such as a secondary battery, a supercapacitor and a fuel cell by making use of the new polymer electrolyte.
For instance, in graduation research and Advanced Engineering Course research, colleges develop real energy storage devices with their own hands
At first we prepare some battery materials, and then refine it for further purification.
In addition, we monitor whether it is done in accordance with the design and evaluate it.
To carry through with this, both knowledge and experimental technique of organic chemistry and polymer chemistry are demanded, colleges, therefore, will acquire knowledge and experience on materials evaluation such as nuclear magnetic resonance, thermal analysis and X-rays analysis.
In the next step we develop the process of molding and film-forming onthe materials we composed so as to be able to use it for batteries.
We design batteries by combining the materials with other sub-materials, and then create real batteries.
An electron microscope and an atomic force microscope are used for confirmation of minute parts.
We examine batteries completed in this way on various kinds of conditions and clarify relations between the materials and battery performances by finding out how the materials made by us operate in the battery of the end product.
Electrochemical knowledge is necessary for the evaluation of battery.
“To create from materials to a device throughout” is our way of studying, thus we aim at training engineers with wide knowledge and original ideas.