Laboratory for In Operando X-ray Science (LinXS)
LinXS will advance the design and optimization of clean-energy solutions using a state-of-the-art, unique laboratory for in operando x-ray spectroscopy (LINX).
Background
Sustainable energy solutions require both greater efficiency of production and better performance and longevity of products. Substantial improvements have already been achieved in many areas, but current solutions still require significant improvements if we are to achieve the goal of truly clean and sustainable energy.
In some cases, very efficient devices carry significant safety risks, as is the case with ubiquitous lithium-ion batteries that carry a very real risk of explosive failure. All-solid-state batteries address this issue by removing the culprit – the liquid electrolyte. In other cases, device cost and sustainability remain significant roadblocks and are unsustainable (think of expensive platinum and rhodium in automotive catalytic converters).
The obvious yet challenging solution is to replace these precious metals with more economical and sustainable alternatives, such as iron and nickel. In each of these cases, the challenge is the development of novel materials and devices with customizable functionality at low cost.
LinXS
The CFI-IF funded project will accelerate research into sustainable technologies by creating in-operando analytic capabilities to directly evaluate the electronic properties of materials. New catalysts will be developed for H2 production, turning waste CO2 and methane into useful fuels, and new solid-state lithium-ion batteries. UCalgary’s research is already expanding the frontier of these technologies and this proposal is aimed at retaining and extending this competitive edge.
The proposed infrastructure consists of a suite of x-ray instrumentation with complementary capabilities: two x-ray absorption spectrometers, two x-ray emission spectrometers, one x-ray microscope, one Moessbauer spectrometer, and one x-ray diffractometer. Having these capabilities in-house will significantly shorten development times, provide crucial insight into device operations, and create unique HQP training opportunities.
Pierre Kennepohl
Interim Associate Dean, Innovation and Strategic Partnerships; Professor (Department of Chemistry)
pierre.kennepohl@ucalgary.ca
Simon Trudel
Director, Nanoscience Program; Professor (Department of Chemistry)
trudels@ucalgary.ca