Energy Storage: Chemistry, Materials, and Applications

4 units · Undergraduate upper division (100-199)

Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to principles, materials, and applications of batteries and energy storage systems. Overview of renewable energy technologies and discussion of critical role of energy storage in making them viable. Exploration of primary and secondary batteries, advanced chemistries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells, with emphasis on real-world applications. Analysis of practical applications in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and grid energy storage. Addresses key challenges such as manufacturing, safety standards, recycling, and sustainability efforts. Special attention is given to lithium-ion batteries and other emerging technologies driving the electrification revolution. Students gain knowledge and skills to analyze energy storage technologies, understand their impact on society, and develop practical solutions to support the transition toward a sustainable, electrified future. Concurrently scheduled with course C242. P/NP or letter grading.