Likun Zhu

Dr. Likun Zhu is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University's School of Mechanical Engineering in Indianapolis. His research focuses on advanced battery technologies, including lithium-ion and solid-state batteries, with an emphasis on in situ and operando characterization, modeling, and micro/nano fabrication. Dr. Zhu's work addresses critical challenges in battery energy density, safety, and longevity through innovative materials and manufacturing processes.

Education: Ph.D. Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland (2006); M.S./B.S., Tsinghua University (2001/1998). His lab is affiliated with the Birck Nanotechnology Center and equipped with advanced facilities such as gloveboxes, electrochemical analyzers, and microscopy systems. Recent milestones include securing an NSF grant for solid-state battery research (2023) and advising over 30 graduate students.

Research Interests: Solid-state batteries, micro/nano fabrication, operando characterization, and sustainable energy materials. His group develops novel electrode materials and designs for high-performance batteries, leveraging cutting-edge in situ techniques to study dynamic processes during cycling.

Grants & Awards: NSF grant (2023) for solid-state battery research. Advising: Notable students include Hua Wang (Ph.D. 2024), Xintong Li, and Tianyi Li. Collaborations include work with Professors Hazim El-Mounayri and Andres Tovar on Bayesian optimization of battery materials.

Labs & Facilities: The lab, located at ET 118, houses equipment like Arbin battery cyclers, FIB-SEM systems, and Comsol Multiphysics software. Dr. Zhu teaches courses including ME 330 (Dynamic Systems), ME 509 (Fluid Mechanics), and ME 597 (Renewable Energy).