Student for thesis Characterisation of Solid-State Diffusion in Graphite for P2D Models

P2D models are ideal for predictions of electrochemical behaviours of cells for electric vehicle application since they strike the right balance between complexity and predictive power. Solid-state diffusion is a process within the electrode that critically influences the rate capabilities during charging and discharging. In P2D models, this process is not fully understood especially in anodes such as graphite. Currently existing methods of modelling and characterisation, generally implemented in cathodes, does not fully work on graphite due to additional effects such as occurrence of phase transitions which necessitates alternative methodologies. The cell modelling lab focuses on the development of such methodologies. The focus of the work is to characterize solid-state diffusion through experiments and implement it in a P2D model.

Contents of the Master's Thesis

• Building graphite half cells (EL cells) of different electrode variations such as very thin electrodes, thickness variations and particle size variations
• Perform C-Rate tests at different temperatures
• Obtaining diffusion coefficients through fitting
• Use the obtained results to capture the behaviours of all electrode variations

The final topic determination takes place in consultation with the university, you and us.

The activity can begin from April 2026.