Electrochemical systems find wide applications in energy and sustainability applications (e.g., batteries, CO2 capture and conversion, electrolytic ironmaking, etc.). A deep physical understanding of thermodynamics and kinetics of the interfacial charge (ion and electron) transfer reaction, especially in emerging electrolyte systems (such as water-in-salt electrolyte, weak electrolyte, etc.), is essential for rational design to enhance performance, reduce cost, and improve scalability.
Dr. Tao Gao,
University of Utah
In the first part of this talk, I will discuss the electro-reduction of transition metal cations (M2+) in aqueous environment, the core reaction in low-cost energy storage (iron and zinc batteries) and emission-free metal production (electrowinning). Concentrated electrolytes can enhance the efficiency of these reactions, but the mechanism remains to be fully understood. The long-held understanding attributes the improved efficiency to better deposit morphology and suppressed water reactivity (H2O/H2). Our recent studies revealed an overlooked mechanism related to the metal redox (M2+/M) and metal-anion complex. I will present our experimental findings and discuss our fundamental understanding based on electrode reaction and complex formation equilibria. In the second part of the talk, I will turn to lithium (Li) ion insertion reaction and examine the selectivity of this reaction in battery and separation applications. In non-aqueous environments, Li insertion competes with plating during battery charging, which dictates the cycle life and safety of Li ion batteries. In aqueous environments, Li insertion competes with sodium (Na)/magnesium (Mg) insertion, which is leveraged to design a new generation of metal separation technique. The origin of selectivity is important but remains elusive. I will present our results based on innovative experiment designs, and discuss our understanding based on the thermodynamics and kinetics of the competing reactions.
Dr. Tao Gao obtained his BS/MS from Tsinghua University, PhD from University of Maryland, College Park, and postdoc training from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is currently an assistant professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Utah. His lab studies electrochemical technologies/processes for energy and sustainability applications, including rechargeable batteries, sustainable processing and separation, critical material extraction, etc. He has published 70+ papers in journals including Science, Nature Communication, Joule, etc. He has an H-index of 60, with a total citation of more than 22, 000. He is the recipient of NSF CAREER Award (2025), Investigator on the Rise Award at University of Utah (2025), Highly Cited Researcher Recognition by Clarivate (2022-2024), the Emerging investigator Award by Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Journal of Material Chemistry (2023), Early Career Investigator Award by the American Chemical Society (ACS) Energy and Fuel Division (2022), Dean’s Dissertation Fellowship at University of Maryland (2016) and Outstanding Graduate Assistant Award at University of Maryland (2016).