Gurpreet Singh

Design of new type of polymer-derived ultrahigh temperature materials: This project focuses on design and development of novel polymeric precursors for synthesis of multifunctional ceramics, such as Si-C-N, Si-O-C, and Si-B-C-N/HfC systems. These materials are of immense technological significant because of their unique high temperature mechanical, optical, and electrical properties. They are being actively explored for applications in environments that require materials to withstand extreme conditions, such as those experienced in gas turbines, jet engines, modular reactors, and space applications. More specifically, we study the chemistry of polymer-to ceramic transformation, optimization of the precursor structure with the goal to enhance final ceramic's physical properties. By combining novel materials with advanced synthesis techniques, the research aims to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with precursor derived ceramics, ensuring reliable performance in next-generation high temperature applications. Advanced thermal and optical coatings: This project involves design of advanced thermal and optical coatings utilizing carbon nanotube and graphene modified ceramic composites. These coatings are engineered for applications that require materials to withstand extreme thermal conditions and yet exhibit excellent absorption across a broad range of wavelengths, from UV to far IR. Such coatings may enhance the performance and durability of devices used in aerospace and fundamental scientific research applications, where precision and reliable working of the device (for example, a power meter) under extreme conditions is essential. Manufacture of bulk powders of 2-D materials for use in energy storage devices: This project investigates preparation and use of 2-D materials, particularly those comprising of exfoliated sheets of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) and TMD-alloys, in energy storage devices. Atomically thin layers of TMDs (MoS2, WS2 etc. including alloy TMDs such as MoWS2), exhibit unique chemical and physical properties such as high surface area, thickness dependent tunable optical/electrical properties that arise from their 2-D structure. These materials are being studied for a range of applications including high-capacity, lightweight, and flexible electrodes for next generation batteries, capacitors and other electrochemical devices including sensor devices. The project aims to scale up synthesis of powders of nano sheets of TMDs and incorporate them into hybrid composites, leading to significant advancements in energy storage systems. TMDs are 2-D materials similar to graphene with unique chemical and physical properties. Fundamental understanding of charge storage and degradation mechanisms in 2-D electrodes: Goal here is to gain deeper insights into charge storage mechanisms in high surface area 2-D materials, especially electrodes made from graphene derivatives and TMDs. A significant challenge in the field of nano materials for energy storage is the low charge capacity and voltage hysteresis that often occurs in the first cycles of Li-ion battery use. By investigating fundamental issues that lead to these problems, the project aims to uncover the origins of irreversibility and develop approaches (for example, voltage cut-off, nano structuring, conformal coatings to prevent degradation with electrolyte) to mitigate the first-cycle loss and energy inefficiency. Overall objective is to explore new strategies for optimizing electrode materials, enhancing their chemical stability, and enabling faster charging and longer lifetimes.