Research
Research summary
The Energy Nanomaterials Laboratory at JAIST focuses on ion-conducting materials and their nanostructures and interfaces to develop next-generation energy materials and devices. Our research covers material design and synthesis, advanced characterization, electrochemical evaluation, and mechanistic analysis, with applications to fuel cells, batteries, water electrolysis, sensors, and related technologies.
Fuel Cells and Batteries
Designing materials and interfaces for fast and selective ion transport
We study ion transport in polymer electrolytes, electrode materials, and their interfaces to improve the performance of fuel cells and Li-ion and Na-ion batteries.
In particular, we aim to design materials that enable fast and selective ion transport by controlling nanostructures, hierarchical organization, molecular orientation, and thin-film interfaces.
Related publications:
Review article
Li+ ion battery
Na+ ion battery review
Zn+ ion battery review
Next-Generation Proton Batteries
Developing new rechargeable batteries using protons
We are developing rechargeable batteries that use protons as charge carriers.
By focusing on electrode materials, electrolytes, and their interfaces, we aim to develop materials and devices that enable fast and stable proton storage and transport.(proton battery）
Hydrogen and Electrochemical Devices
Electrochemical technologies for energy conversion and storage
We collaborate with overseas research groups on water electrolysis, CO₂ electrolysis, supercapacitors, flow batteries, and related electrochemical devices.
These studies focus on electrode materials, catalysts, electrolytes, and interfacial phenomena, and extend our research into a broad range of energy-conversion and energy-storage technologies. (CO2reduction,Photoelectrochemical water splitting, CO2 methanation, Zn-Br flow battery)
Smart Materials and Sensors
Controlling and detecting stimuli through ion transport
We study materials in which ion transport changes in response to external stimuli such as light and mechanical force.
Our research includes active control of ion conduction and the development of sensors that detect touch, force, and other stimuli, with the aim of creating new functional materials and devices connecting humans and machines. (NO2 gas sensor、NH3 gas sensor, self-powered humidity sensor）
Research Approaches
Across these four research themes, we combine materials synthesis, electrochemical measurements, spectroscopy, and structural analysis to understand phenomena occurring inside materials and at interfaces.
We also incorporate emerging approaches such as simulations, data science, and AI through collaborative research to better understand experimental results and guide the design of new materials.