Tuyen Truong
| tttruon7@ncsu.edu@ncsu.edu
M.S., Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, 2024 B.S., Chemical Engineering & Technology, 2021
|
 |
Research Project: SDC Polymer Architectures for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Our research focuses on developing Soft Dendritic Colloid (SDC)-engineered polymer architectures for application as functional interlayers and integrated cathodes in lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. This project aims to enable high-energy-density, long-cycle-life Li–S systems suitable for electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage. Despite their high theoretical energy density, Li–S batteries face several critical challenges: (i) the dissolution and shuttling of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs), which leads to rapid capacity fading and low Coulombic efficiency; (ii) the intrinsic insulating nature of sulfur and its discharge products, resulting in sluggish redox kinetics; (iii) significant volume expansion during cycling, which compromises structural stability and long-term durability.
Our SDC polymer platform addresses these limitations through the fabrication of a dendritic, high-surface-area fibrous network derived from poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). The shear-driven phase separation process produces a three-dimensional, interconnected “fish-net” morphology that can be integrated with conductive nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, or MXenes.As a functional interlayer, the SDC structure acts as a conductive and catalytic barrier that physically confines polysulfides, accelerates LiPS conversion, and reduces charge-transfer resistance while maintaining efficient lithium-ion transport. When applied directly within the cathode, the same architecture provides a robust conductive scaffold that improves sulfur immobilization, enhances electrochemical utilization, and accommodates volumetric expansion during cycling.
Through this project, we aim to advance the practical implementation of Li–S batteries by combining materials engineering, interfacial design, and scalable fabrication strategies. The SDC polymer architecture provides a multifunctional and adaptable platform that moves Li–S technology closer to commercial viability while supporting the growing demand for sustainable, high-energy storage systems.