Research

Thangadurai’s research interests are focused on clean energy solution for net zero emission. His group work involves development of next generation solid state ionic devices such as solid oxide fuel cells, all-solid-state metal batteries, lithium-sulphur batteries, redox flow inorganic and organic batteries, and electrochemical methods for carbon removal and storage. His group research also aims to understand the structure-composition-property relationship in solid. His current work involves designing, synthesizing, and characterizing novel solid-state electrolytes, mixed ionic and electronic conductors, and electrodes for advanced solid-state ionic devices.

Some key areas of Thangadurai’s work include:

• Development of CO₂ and humidity-resistant solid-state ceramic proton conductors, fast oxide ion electrolytes, and mixed conductors based on perovskite and related structures for solid oxide fuel cells and electrolysis cells, aimed at hydrogen and ammonia production.
• Ceramic alkali-ion conducting membranes for robust, high-energy-density metal batteries designed for extreme weather conditions, inspired by Li-stuffed garnet electrolytes and NASICON electrolytes to replace organic electrolyte-based batteries. Research on localized high-concentration electrolytes for ultra-long-life lithium metal and anode-free batteries. Electrocatalysts to improve electrode kinetics in Li-S batteries through experimental and theoretical modelling techniques.