What we do
Areas of Focus
The Carolina Institute for Battery Innovation emphasizes research, education & outreach, and manufacturing as it drives technological advancements, cultivates a skilled workforce, and supports South Carolina’s growing battery industry.
Research
Fundamental understanding is key for advancing sustainable energy solutions and enhancing the performance of electronic devices. At USC, battery research focuses on improving energy density, lifespan, and safety of batteries - essential for everything from smartphones to electric cars.
By developing new materials, addressing safety and recycling challenges, and exploring innovative technologies, our researchers aim to address current limitations and contribute to more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy storage systems.
Education & Outreach
The importance of workforce development and education in battery technologies cannot be overstated. USC's bachelor's degrees and Ph.D. programs, as well as the strong SC Technical College System, will provide the well-rounded educational framework necessary for building up the next generation of experts in battery science, engineering, and manufacturing.
Bachelor's programs equip students with knowledge in chemistry, materials science, and engineering principles, and Ph.D. programs push the boundaries of current research. Technical colleges offer hands-on experience and technical skills necessary for immediate application in the industry.
Manufacturing
Through pilot-scale manufacturing of batteries, the Carolina Institute for Battery Innovation (CIBI) will combine laboratory research and full-scale commercial production. By developing the capability to produce pouch, cylindrical, and prismatic cells, CIBI encourages researchers and industry partners to test and refine their innovations under realistic conditions.
This intermediate scale allows for the optimization of manufacturing processes, identification of potential issues, and validation of new materials and designs before scaling up to mass production.
This approach not only accelerates the development cycle but also ensures that new battery technologies are viable, efficient, and ready for deployment in various applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles and grid-scale energy.
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Who we are
Our Team on The Forefront of Research
The CIBI team is the largest concentration of battery researchers in South Carolina, comprising over 100 experts, including faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and staff scientists.
Focused on battery materials, cell assembly, manufacturing, recycling, and safety, the team works to innovate in battery technology through research, education, and hands-on training.
Team Member Spotlight
Distinguished Professor - Electrical Engineering
Adel Nasiri
Adel Nasiri focuses on high power/voltage energy conversion, energy storage, and microgrids. His research includes developing advanced power electronic systems for renewable energy integration and enhancing the resilience of energy systems.
Our Partners
