UCLA

Electrochemical energy storage plays a vital role in facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources, improving the efficiency of portable electronic gadgets and electric vehicles. This thesis explores innovative advancements in electrochemical energy storage, focusing on two main areas: microelectrodes and vanadium oxide cathodes. The first chapter elaborates on the distinctive features and manufacturing techniques of microelectrode needles and arrays, highlighting their exceptional accuracy in tackling unresolved scientific questions in energy storage. By enabling ultrafast electrodeposition kinetics and localized electrochemical measurements, they provide critical insights into the behavior of various energy storage materials, demonstrating their potential to challenge the initial understanding of fundamental energy storage mechanism. Future opportunities in electrodeposition morphology, in situ characterization and high-throughput experimenting have been identified, to further advance microelectrode technology. The second chapter delves into the structural and electrochemical advantages of vanadium oxide cathodes for aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs). These cathodes are pivotal due to their potential for high energy density and extended cycle life, addressing critical obstacles in existing energy storage systems. AZIBs, equipped with their ecologically sound aqueous electrolytes, present safer options compared to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), rendering them appropriate for extensive energy storage purposes. The chapter discusses innovative strategies to overcome current constrains, including the development of laser-scribed VOx-rGO heterostructures that exhibits exceptional pseudocapacitive Zn²⁺ storage and remarkable electrochemical performance. This research not only improves the calendar life of AZIBs, but also paves the way for future progress in cathodic engineering, electrolyte chemistry, and large-scale implementation. By enhancing the efficiency and durability of energy storage systems, these research topics have significant implications for supporting the global transition to cleaner energy solutions.