Electrochemical energy systems are a core focus of the research conducted at Ohio University’s Institute for Sustainable Energy and the Environment (ISEE). The lab actively collaborates with industry and government partners on projects aimed at advancing energy storage, production, and processing technologies.
ISEE is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment for material synthesis, cell fabrication, and performance testing and characterization.
Energy Storage
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are at the forefront of modern energy storage technology, widely used in electric vehicles, consumer electronics and renewable energy systems. These batteries offer a high energy density, long cycle life and excellent efficiency, making them ideal for portable power applications. ISEE focuses on enhancing the performance and sustainability of lithium-ion batteries by exploring new sources of carbon for the manufacture of battery-grade graphite.
Sodium-ion Batteries
Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) present an emerging alternative to lithium-ion technology, offering a cost-effective and sustainable option for large-scale energy storage. Sodium is more abundant and widely available than lithium, making Na-ion batteries a promising candidate for grid storage and renewable energy integration, while not requiring materials such as nickel and cobalt. ISEE is developing hard carbon for SIBs from domestic carbon resources using innovative thermal processing techniques.
Super-capacitors
Super-capacitors offer a unique energy storage solution with rapid charge and discharge capabilities, making them ideal for applications that require short bursts of high power, such as regenerative braking, power backup systems, and fast-charging electronics. Unlike conventional batteries, super-capacitors store energy through electrostatic interactions rather than chemical reactions, allowing for ultra-fast energy transfer and a much longer cycle life. Our lab focuses on advancing super-capacitor technologies by developing new materials and architectures that increase energy and power densities.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) generate electricity from fuels like hydrogen with high efficiency and low emissions, while Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cells (SOECs) use electricity to produce hydrogen or syngas from water or CO 2 . ISEE is utilizing SOFC and SOEC technology as modular chemical synthesis technologies for the production of chemical building blocks such as ethylene and carbon monoxide.