Tianyu Li

The behavior of phase/structure transitions and transformations is pivotal in determining the performance and functionality of solid-state materials. Mechanical failure in alloys, capacity degradation in rechargeable batteries, and the emergence of ferroelectric, ferromagnetic, and superconducting phases can all be linked to distinct phase/structure transitions and transformations in materials. Understanding and controlling the structure/phase transition/transformation behaviors in various systems is a crucial step for material scientists and chemists to achieve materials design with precision.  The research in my group will be focused on understanding the different factors that can contribute to the structure/phase transition/transformation behaviors in the energy-related inorganic solid-state materials, including battery electrode materials, multiferroic semiconductors, and catalysts. We will primarily apply advanced neutron/synchrotron X-ray scattering techniques and solid-state NMR to understand the structural evolution behaviors.