Newswise — Two Virginia Tech chemistry researchers are available to talk about how the batteries we use and carry in our cellphones can easily overheat.
Samsung said Monday night it is halting sales of its Galaxy Note 7 smartphone after a number of fires involving new devices that were supposed to be safe replacements for recalled models.
Assistant Professor Feng Lin and Associate Professor Lou Madsen have studied lithium ion batteries and their chemical makeup, and can explain the volatility of these materials that we often take for granted as workable and safe.
Batteries now can only charge or discharge up to a ceiling of 120 degrees Fahrenheit, lest they become overheated and create a fire hazard. For years, researchers around the globe have been trying to build compact, light, powerful batteries that can withstand the heat of charging and discharging. Madsen and Lin are part of this group and can provide insight into batteries of past and present, and what the $48 billion industry hopes is the future.
Madsen is working to develop a prototype “ion gel” that could solve two of the battery industry’s most difficult problems: risk of fire and limited charge storage capacity. Read more about that research here.
About Lin and Madsen Feng Lin is an assistant professor with the Department of Chemistry at Virginia Tech, focusing his research on inorganic chemistry, electrochemistry, materials, and energy sciences, specifically batteries and catalysis. Part of Lin’s research effort is to develop batteries with high energy/power densities, long cycle life and enhanced safety. Full bio here.
Lou Madsen is an associate professor with the Department of Chemistry at Virginia Tech, focusing his research on physical, polymer and materials chemistry, including soft materials such as liquid crystals used in display technology and polymer membranes using in fuel cells and water purifiers. Full bio here.
To secure a live or recorded video interview with Lin or Madsen, contact Bill Foy at 540-998-0288.
Our studioVirginia Tech's television and radio studios can broadcast live HD audio and video to networks, news agencies, and affiliates interviewing Virginia Tech faculty, students, and staff. The university does not charge for use of its studios. Video is transmitted by LTN Global Communications.
RSS