Title of project: Driving a Better Battery Through Materials Science
Type: Research
Guide: Dr. Adam Timmons, General Motors Company

In this Quest research project, John Camardese and Alexander Prescott will enroll in Chemical Sciences Project 1 (CHM4912) or Physics Project 1 (PHY4912), and under the close supervision of GM research Dr. Adam Timmons, and Lawrence Tech faculty Dr. Anthony Sky, will use the principles and practices of materials science to develop a better understanding of electrode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries. Students will work six hours per week on-site (at GM R & D Center and/or Lawrence Tech) and two hours per week at home. Since the preparation of materials for the Li-ion batteries and the conditions under which the batteries work affect both the durability of those materials and the performance of the battery, potential Quest projects could involve electrochemical, structural/compositional, physical or surface characterizations, or any combination thereof. As part of the Quest requirements, students will make a presentation at Lawrence Tech to faculty and students at the conclusion of the project.