Modelling of dendrites initiation in lithium metal solid-state battery cells

All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) represent a major step forward in the energy transition, with a particularly promising impact in the transport and mobility sector. ASSBs offer increased efficiency and a solution to current challenges in terms of energy density and safety. IFPEN works for the development of this technology, particularly through European programmes (MODALIS2, HELENA). Modelling developments have been initiated at various scales, from the atomic scale to the battery pack scale. 
The subject concerns lithium ASSBs. The development of this technology is currently limited by uncontrolled failure risks due to damage mechanisms. The best known of these is the risk of internal short-circuiting resulting from the growth of metallic filaments (also known as dendrites) through the microstructure of the solid electrolyte. The aim of the thesis is to contribute to the development of new generations of lithium ASSB cells by setting up a cell model on the scale of continuous media, with the aim of assessing the risk of dendrite propagation. This is a coupled electro-chemo-mechanical multiphysics model designed to capture the nucleation and evolution of dendrites on the scale of a 3D battery cell, up to the eventual rupture of the solid electrolyte. The thesis work will involve developing a mechanical modelling with the phase-field damage approach coupled with the electro-chemical phenomena involved. This model will be implemented into FreeFEM or ABAQUS.
This thesis project is part of a collaboration between two organisations, IFPEN and Professor J-C Grandidier (ISAE-ENSMA), with multidisciplinary teams offering a stimulating and fulfilling professional environment. Join this dynamic team, which offers an exceptional atmosphere, a pleasant living environment and attractive remuneration prospects for PhD students.      

Keywords: multi-physics modelling; electrochemistry; continuum mechanics; phase field formulation; fracture mechanics of materials   

• Academic Supervisors  Dr Laurent CANGEMI, IFPEN, ORCID 0000-0002-8400-0651 & Pr Jean-Claude GRANDIDIER, ISAE-ENSMA
• Doctoral School    ED579 - SMEMAG, Université Paris-Saclay. 
• IFPEN supervisors    Dr Nadège BRUSSELLE-DUPEND, ORCID 0009-0001-3146-070X & Dr Sara ABADA, ORCID 0000-0002-7333-2335
• PhD location    IFPEN, Rueil-Malmaison, France  
• Duration and start date    3 years, starting in the fourth quarter 2024 (Novembre 4)
• Employer    IFPEN
• Academic requirements    Master science level (M2, school of engineer) in materials science or mechanics of materials with a very good level in numerical methods for mechanics (finite-elements, Abaqus, …). 
• Language requirements    English level C1 (CEFR), French level B2 (CEFR)
• Other requirements    Able to work independently and be inquisitive. An aptitude for multidisciplinary, mathematical modelling and teamwork. 

To apply, please send your cover letter and CV to the IFPEN supervisor indicated here below.