Cracks in Action – Fatigue Failure in Solid Electrolytes for Future Batteries
Liu Yang, Technische Universität Berlin, Werkstoffwissenschaften und -technologien
Inhalte/ Contents
Solid-state batteries are a promising next-generation energy technology, offering improved safety and energy density. However, their ceramic electrolytes are brittle and prone to cracking under repeated mechanical or electrochemical cycling. This student research group investigates the early stages of fatigue failure in solid electrolytes through a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach. Students will explore how microstructure and stress contribute to crack formation—by assembling and cycling simple Li–solid electrolyte–Li cells, conducting mechanical tests (e.g. nanoindentation), analyzing material microstructures (e.g. CT), or modeling stress fields and crack initiation. Depending on their interests, participants can focus on experimental work, literature analysis, or finite element simulation. The group is open to Bachelor’s and Master’s students in materials science, physics, mechanical engineering, computer science or related fields. No prior experience with batteries is required—just curiosity and enthusiasm for materials under stress.
Kontakt/ Contact
liu.yang@tu-berlin.de