Research in the group on Process Technology for Electrochemical Functional Materials, led by Doris Segets, focuses on the dispersion and ink formulation of nanoparticles for their large-scale coating on flexible substrates. We are striving for energy applications and sustainable technologies including batteries, fuel cells, and (opto)electronics.

 

Starting from the high-performance nanomaterials synthesized at UDE’s NanoEnergieTechnikZentrum (NETZ) in large quantity, we develop a knowledge-based formulation of functional inks and their subsequent coating as (nano)structured layers. To realize this vision, we make use of a toolbox we already developed for the in-depth characterization of colloidal interfaces at the molecular level. By using appropriate descriptors, we connect the therefrom-gained findings with information on dispersibility and colloidal stability at the particle level. Such in-depth understanding of disperse ink properties is then the starting point for the preparation of tailored coatings. Finally, we link layer properties of these coatings with electrode performance. Due to hierarchical knowledge-transfer along the design chain, our approach is an enabling technology for true product design, exemplified by means of electrochemical functional materials.

Awards & Honors

• Friedrich-Löffler-Prize for young scientists for outstanding contributions to the field of particle technology and product design, VDI-GVC, 2016
• Research award of the Alfred-Kärcher-Foundation, 2015
• Starting Grant of the Erlangen Cluster of Excellence ‘Engineering of Advanced Materials, 2015
• Max-Buchner Research Grant, Dechema, 2015
• PhD prize for young researchers of the Faculty of Engineering, FAU, 2013

Memberships & Activities

• Chairperson of the ProcessNet subject division on Interfacially dominated systems and processes
• Member of the Materials Chain, University Alliance Ruhr
• Board of Directors of the NanoEnergieTechnikZentrum (NETZ), UDE
• Center for Nanointegration Duisburg-Essen (CENIDE), UDE
• Programme committee of PP 2045 “Highly specific and multidimensional fractionation of of fine particles systems with technical relevance”
• Member of the ProcessNet working party on High-throughput research for materials, catalysts and formulation