Evidence-Driven Material Development by Multiscale In-Situ Imaging, 3D Characterisation and Modelling

Tuesday, 16 June 2026

A holistic framework that integrates in-situ multidimensional imaging with advanced 3D characterisation and image-based modelling is rapidly transforming evidence-driven materials development for next-generation energy technologies. In this talk, I will show how the multiscale design and manufacturing of advanced materials—using lithium-ion batteries as a representative example—can be significantly accelerated through this approach. Real-time, operando optical and X-ray CT imaging allow direct quantification of key performance-defining metrics such as particle distribution, orientation, porosity, tortuosity, crack initiation and propagation, and their evolution during realistic operating conditions. These insights reveal structure–property–performance relationships that conventional characterisation cannot capture. By converting these rich datasets into image-derived digital twins, we can perform predictive modelling to guide formulation optimisation, microstructural architecture, and manufacturing parameters. Together, these capabilities provide a rigorous evidence-driven foundation for designing materials and components with higher performance, reliability, and manufacturability—ultimately shortening industrial R&D cycles and reducing costly trial-and-error in product development