We use a range of approaches to obtain our materials. In addition to the state-of-the-art synthetic methods, e.g. solid-state and mechanochemical synthesis, we are specialised in sol-gel technique using block copolymer as a structure-directing agent. The self-assembled block copolymer serves as a template with tuneable pore sizes, allowing us to develop a one-pot synthesis route to prepare materials with mesoporous morphologies and large surface areas. Such structural features have been proven beneficial to enhance the kinetic performance of battery electrodes. In addition, we are currently developing a new route using battery chemistry to obtain non-equilibrium phases with potentially exceptional electrochemical or catalytic properties.
