Research
Our group takes an integrative approach to the study and synthesis of redox-active polymers to better understand their energy storage capabilities. By combining established characterization techniques with those developed in-house, we explore the critical relationship between physical properties and electrochemical performance.
Areas of Research Focus
Synthesis of Functional Polymers: We employ air-free synthesis techniques to create functional polymers with a special interest in those with redox active groups. Such polymers have potential applications in batteries and carbon capture.
Stimuli-Responsive Polymers: Our lab investigates polymers that adapt to their environments. These materials respond to external triggers such as light, heat, electrochemical manipulation, and pH.
Redox-Active polymers: Aliphatic redox-active polymers (ARAPs) are linear polymers with pendant redox-active groups. These groups allow ARAPs to undergo reversive oxidation and reduction reactions, making them a promising alternative to metal-based electrodes for applications in energy storage.
Polymer Solutions: Redox reactions occurring in ARAPs result in changes to the polymer’s physical properties. We characterize the in-situ changes to physical properties and gain insight into ARAP structure-property relationships.
Sustainable Energy Storage: The demand for energy storage solutions is expected to increase in the coming decades, as electric vehicles, portable devices, and renewable energy initiatives become increasingly popular. Recyclable energy storage systems, specifically ARAPs, offer a sustainable alternative to current battery technologies.