Ionic conductivity is a key property for emerging energy technologies like fuel cells and batteries.
In a joint project between the ‘Laboratoire Charles Coulomb’ (L2C) and the ‘Institut Charles
Gerhardt de Montpellier’ (ICGM), we will explore how ionic transport processes in poly(ionic
liquids) (PILs) can be simultaneously enhanced by incorporating ionic liquids (IL) while controlling
mechanical strength (and contributing to conductivity) through embedding of a second solid,
ionically conducting network of ionosilica. For this purpose, we will investigate the chemical and
physical properties of various ionic materials (ionic liquids, ionosilicas, poly(ionic liquids)) and
nanostructured composites.
The synthesis of the ionic phases will be carried out at ICGM, and the ion conducting properties
will be studied at L2C. Both project partners have strong scientific background in their respective
fields: L2C (A.C. Genix, J. Oberdisse) have deep expertise in structural and dynamical studies at
the nanoscale in complex polymer systems and nanocomposites. ICGM (P. Hesemann, J. Alauzun,
S. Clément, S. Devautour) is specialized in the synthesis of (nano)materials and PILs as well as
electrical measurements to characterize ionic dynamics of porous solids. As both consortium
partners are localized in Montpellier, the project will benefit from intense and regular scientific
exchange.
As a part of this project, the candidate will be in charge of the synthesis and characterization of
the ionic silica fillers, poly(ionic liquids) as well as nanocomposite formulation. She/He should
have a strong background in materials or polymer chemistry, as well as spectroscopic
characterization methods. Good communication skills, notably in English (oral and written), are
mandatory.
Application deadline: November 15, 2020
Starting date: January 1st, 2021
Contact: Dr. Peter Hesemann
Institut Charles Gerhardt, équipe CMOS
Place E. Bataillon
34090 Montpellier
peter.hesemann@umontpellier.fr