Developing organic batteries using machine learning

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries commonly used in electric vehicles, small appliances and electronic storage systems are rechargeable and energy-efficient. As the demand for Li-ion batteries escalates, the elements needed to create them, such as cobalt, nickel and lithium, are in short supply. Jodie Lutkenhaus, professor in the Texas A&M University Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, and Daniel Tabor, assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry, are using machine learning techniques to optimize polymers needed for developing metal-free, recyclable, organic batteries. The research is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and in collaboration with Juan De Pablo and Stuart Rowan from the University of Chicago. With the approaching Li-ion battery shortage, metal-free batteries offer great potential. In theory, organic batteries could be locally sourced, decreasing demands on supply chains.