Xiangwu Zhang

Xiangwu Zhang is a Professor and the Associate Dean for Research in the Wilson College of Textiles at North Carolina State University. He is also an Alumni Distinguished Graduate Professor and an Inaugural University Faculty Scholar at North Carolina State University.

Research

Zhang has published two books, ten book chapters, and more than 200 peer-reviewed journal articles. Zhang has also delivered over 200 presentations in international and national conferences. Zhang’s research interests focus on nanostructured and multifunctional polymer, composite, fiber, and textile materials with an emphasis on practical applications: i) energy storage and conversion, ii) chemical and biological protection,  iii) composites, and iv) nanofinishing. His research encompasses both fundamental materials studies such as synthesis and physical characterization, as well as system design and fabrication. Zhang has received over seven million dollars of research funding from the US government, foundation, and industry. Following are examples of recent research projects:

• Lithium-Ion Batteries
• Lithium-Air Batteries
• Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
• Sodium-Ion Batteries
• Supercapacitors
• Fuel Cells
• Chemical and Biological Protection Fabrics
• Nano-Finishing of Textile Fabrics
• Functional Textile Materials
• Advanced Electrospinning Systems
• Advanced Centrifugal Spinning Systems

Academic Degrees

• Postdoctoral Associate Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, 2006
• Postdoctoral Associate Center for Electrochemical Systems and Hydrogen Research, Texas A&M University, 2002
• Ph.D Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 2001
• Dissertation Preparation and Properties of Polymeric Composites Filled with Low-Melting-Point Alloy, ,
• B.S. Polymer Materials and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, 1997
• Minor Computer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, 1997

Publications

Study of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) grafted cotton fabrics initiated by atmospheric pressure plasma

Sun, X. H., DenHartog, E., Zhang, X. W., & McCord, M. (2018), Applied Surface Science, 453, 182-191.

In situ polymerization of nanostructured conductive polymer on 3d sulfur/carbon nanofiber composite network as cathode for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries

Zhu, P., Zhu, J. D., Yan, C. Y., Dirican, M., Zang, J., Jia, H., Li, Y., Kiyak, Y., Tan, H. S., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Advanced Materials Interfaces, 5(10).

High-performance SnSb@rGO@CMF composites as anode material for sodium-ion batteries through high-speed centrifugal spinning

Jia, H., Dirican, M., Zhu, J. D., Chen, C., Yan, C. Y., Zhu, P., Li, Y., Guo, J. S., Caydamli, Y., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Journal of Alloys and Compounds, 752, 296-302.

Reduced graphene oxide-incorporated SnSb@CNF composites as anodes for high-performance sodium-ion batteries

Jia, H., Dirican, M., Chen, C., Zhu, J. D., Zhu, P., Yan, C. Y., Li, Y., Dong, X., Guo, J. S., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 10(11), 9696-9703.

Biomass-derived porous carbon modified glass fiber separator as polysulfide reservoir for Li-S batteries

Selva, R. K., Zhu, P., Yan, C. I., Zhu, J. D., Dirican, M., Shanmugavani, A., Lee, Y. S., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 513, 231-239.

Li0.33La0.557TiO3 ceramic nanofiber-enhanced polyethylene oxide-based composite polymer electrolytes for all-solid-state lithium batteries

Zhu, P., Yan, C. Y., Dirican, M., Zhu, J. D., Zang, J., Selvan, R. K., Chung, C. C., Jia, H., Li, Y., Kiyak, Y., Wu, N. Q., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 6(10), 4279-4285.

Biomass-derived porous carbon modified glass fiber separator as polysulfide reservoir for Li-S batteries

Selva, R. K., Zhu, P., Yan, C. I., Zhu, J. D., Dirican, M., Shanmugavani, A., Lee, Y. S., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 513, 231-239.

Glass fiber separator coated by porous carbon nanofiber derived from immiscible PAN/PMMA for high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries

Li, Y., Zhu, J. D., Zhu, P., Yan, C. Y., Jia, H., Kiyak, Y., Zang, J., He, J. H., Dirican, M., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Journal of Membrane Science, 552, 31-42.

Hollow carbon sphere with open pore encapsulated MnO2 nanosheets as high-performance anode materials for lithium ion batteries

Zang, J., Ye, J. C., Qian, H., Lin, Y., Zhang, X. W., Zheng, M. S., & Dong, Q. F. (2018), Electrochimica Acta, 260, 783-788.

Surface processing and ageing behavior of silk fabrics treated with atmospheric-pressure plasma for pigment-based ink-jet printing

Zhang, C. M., Wang, L. B., Yu, M., Qu, L. J., Men, Y. J., & Zhang, X. W. (2018), Applied Surface Science, 434, 198-203.

View All Publications

Grants

Flexible Functional Nano-Carbon Electrodes for Energy Devices

University Global Partnership Network (UGPN)(8/01/17 - 7/31/18)

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Flexible Functional Nano-Carbon Electrodes for Energy Devices

Sponsor: University Global Partnership Network (UGPN)

Start Date: 8/01/17

End Date: 7/31/18

Abstract

This proposal aims to combine the fibre-capacitor materials of Dr Crean at the University of Surrey with the centrifugal spinning technique of Prof Zhang at North Carolina State University for flexible energy storage. These materials will be converted by Prof Chen at the University of Wollongong into flexible energy harvesting devices and combined with the above to make an all-in-one energy harvesting and storage device. The proposed project will support long-term collaboration among Crean, Chen and Zhang and allow international research training to doctoral students from all three groups. Placing doctoral students in overseas research labs will foster collaboration by facilitating knowledge transfer and allowing the production of novel energy materials. These novel flexible electrodes will be characterized in terms of energy harvesting and storage for wearable applications and the results will be published in a high quality journal and supplement a full research proposal in 2018.

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Proposal to Establish a North Carolina Fabric Discovery Center (NC-FDC)

Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA)(12/01/17 - 11/30/20)

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Proposal to Establish a North Carolina Fabric Discovery Center (NC-FDC)

Sponsor: Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA)

Start Date: 12/01/17

End Date: 11/30/20

Abstract

The vision of the proposed North Carolina Fabric Discovery Center (NC-FDC) is to transform U.S. textile manufacturing into a value-added, end-to-end industry that is flexible, nimble and economically viable. NC-FDC will accomplish this vision by building a network of existing and new capabilities that enable the rapid discovery, assembly, and prototyping of game-changing functional fibers, yarns and fabrics into deployable products for defense and civilian applications.

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Solid-State Inorganic Nanofiber Network-Polymer Composite Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries

US Dept. of Energy (DOE)(10/01/16 - 9/30/19)

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Solid-State Inorganic Nanofiber Network-Polymer Composite Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries

Sponsor: US Dept. of Energy (DOE)

Start Date: 10/01/16

End Date: 9/30/19

Abstract

The interlaced lithium ion conducting ceramic nanofiber network will be incorporated into the polyethylene oxide (PEO)-bistrifluoromethane sulfonimide (LiTFSI) matrix, as shown in Figure 1. Ion conducting ceramic nanofibers made of lithium-garnet, lithium lanthanum titanate perovskite or the NASICON-type Li ionic conductor will be prepared by the electrospinning technique. Integration of the ceramic nanofiber network into PEO polymer matrix not only provides the continuous charge transport channels for the Li ions but also kinetically inhibits the crystallization from the amorphous state of PEO upon annealing. The addition of highly-conducting ceramic nanofibers will also facilitate lithium salt dissociation and ion transport through the polymer electrolyte for improving the lithium ion conductivity of PEO itself. The solid-state ceramic nanofiber-polymer composite electrolyte will show higher ionic conductivity, improved mechanical strength and better stability than the PEO-LiTFSI polymer electrolyte. This composite electrolyte will also show better mechanical integrity, easier incorporation and better compatibility with the lithium metal anode than the planar ceramic membrane counterparts.

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High-Capacity SnSb Alloy Anode Fabricated by Centrifugal Spinning Method

US Navy - Naval Air Warfare Center(6/01/16 - 11/30/16)

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High-Capacity SnSb Alloy Anode Fabricated by Centrifugal Spinning Method

Sponsor: US Navy - Naval Air Warfare Center

Start Date: 6/01/16

End Date: 11/30/16

Abstract

Energy storage devices in many military applications including naval aircraft are facing challenges to meet their increasing electrical power demands. Lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology has unique advantages – increased capacity (~3X) and decreased weight (~1/3) in comparison to the lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries currently used in aircraft. The power and energy demands of the aircraft system have increased significantly over the years and the systems have become more complex. There is a need for lithium-ion cells that allow higher capacity, smaller cells and innovative product designs. Graphitic carbon as current anode material has several drawbacks associated with the use of carbon including its relatively low specific capacity (372 mAh/g), poor rate capability in high-current applications, increasing internal resistance with cycling and age, as well as safety concerns due to thermal runaway conditions as a result of thermal exposure, overcharge and overheat conditions. This topic N161-012, for which this proposal is submitted to, is for developing a novel extremely high capacity, long cycle life, low cost, and highly safe anode material for use in Navy applications. The demonstration target by the end of phase I will include: (1) anode capacity: greater than 700 mAh/g at 0.1 C; (2) high coulombic efficiency: greater than 99.5% after initial cycle; (3) high rate performance: >80% capacity at 1C and even >70% capacity at 10C; (4) long cycle life: greater than 1000 cycles with capacity retention of >85%, even after 2000 cycles with capacity retention of >80%.

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"Smart" cotton fabrics with temperature-responsive thermoregulation properties

Cotton, Inc.(1/01/16 - 12/31/16)

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"Smart" cotton fabrics with temperature-responsive thermoregulation properties

Sponsor: Cotton, Inc.

Start Date: 1/01/16

End Date: 12/31/16

Abstract

Fabrics that feature “smart” thermoregulation properties, i.e., higher heat transfer rate under high temperature and lower heat transfer rate under lower temperature, have numerous potential applications in industries such as outdoor clothes, sportswear, interior materials and medical devices. The purpose of this research is to prepare thermo-responsive cotton fabrics by grafting poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) on their surface and evaluate their thermoregulation properties under different environment temperatures.

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Electrochemical Capacitor Research Thrust

NCSU Research and Innovation Seed Funding Program(7/01/15 - 6/30/16)

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Electrochemical Capacitor Research Thrust

Sponsor: NCSU Research and Innovation Seed Funding Program

Start Date: 7/01/15

End Date: 6/30/16

Abstract

The proposed efforts aim to capitalize on existing (and planned) faculty research expertise and infrastructure to expand the Electrochemcial Capacitor Thrust within the Center for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics. The specific goals are to integrate more faculty members into the CDP and to increase the industry membership by at least four companies over the project year. The proposed program will 1) seed a cross-college interdisciplinary research effort that will be sustained long-term by the CDP, 2) support travel funds for faculty to interact with and recruit member companies, 3) support a workshop tutorial for prospective member companies of the CDP in conjunction with the fall 2015 center meeting, and 4) enhance infrastructure within the AIF in support of the Electrochemcial Capacitor Thrust and to communicate those enhancements to the university and industry user base at large.

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Laser Ultrasound Patch Using Carbon Nanofiber Composites

NCSU Research and Innovation Seed Funding Program(7/01/15 - 6/30/16)

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Laser Ultrasound Patch Using Carbon Nanofiber Composites

Sponsor: NCSU Research and Innovation Seed Funding Program

Start Date: 7/01/15

End Date: 6/30/16

Abstract

Unlike the conventional ultrasound transducers with cables, the proposed laser ultrasound is wireless and capable of unprecedentedly remote delivery of ultrasound energy for drug delivery, therapy, and health monitoring of biological and industrial structures. The specific goal of the proposed work is to investigate the carbon nanofiber composites and the associated laser-ultrasound patch (LUP) for ultrasound generation and detections. Specific tasks include: 1) laser ultrasound transduction mechanism study and the LUP transducer design; 2) Fabrication of carbon nanofibers (CNF) with desired optical, thermal and elastic properties and CNF/polymer composite fabrication; 3) CNF characterization, CNF/polymer composite characterization and LUP acoustic characterization; 4) Laser ultrasound tests for drug delivery, thrombolysis, and non-destructive evaluation. This is a truly multidisciplinary research, preliminary data collected under this project will strengthen our future proposals on using laser ultrasound for minimal invasive surgery, drug delivery and wearable electronics to NSF, NIH, DOE and DOD.

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High-Energy Lithium-Sulfur Batteries for Use in Stratospheric Environment

SCEYE SARL (formerly SCEYE S.A.)(11/01/14 - 10/31/18)

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High-Energy Lithium-Sulfur Batteries for Use in Stratospheric Environment

Sponsor: SCEYE SARL (formerly SCEYE S.A.)

Start Date: 11/01/14

End Date: 10/31/18

Abstract

The objective of the proposed work is to develop advanced lithium-sulfur batteries that can simultaneously exhibit high energy density and long cycle life in stratospheric environment. The ultimate goal is to demonstrate and deliver lithium-sulfur batteries with energy density greater than 1000 Wh/kg at -80oC between 60,000 and 80,000 feet altitude. In the second year of the project, a lithium-sulfur battery pack prototype will be delivered to Vestergaard to be used and tested in a mission in stratospheric environment. Before the project ends, we will also work with a selected partner to prepare the industrial production of the proposed lithium-sulfur batteries.

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Collaborative Research: Multi-University I/UCRC for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics

National Science Foundation (NSF)(3/01/14 - 2/28/19)

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Collaborative Research: Multi-University I/UCRC for Dielectrics and Piezoelectrics

Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)

Start Date: 3/01/14

End Date: 2/28/19

Abstract

?Passive? electronic components, including charge storage capacitors, electrolytic supercapacitors and charge polarization transducers, rely on advanced dielectric and piezoelectric materials that are not found in more commonly studied ?active? transistor devices. The passive components industry is undergoing its biggest change in the last 30 years, due in large part to: i) revolutions in semiconductor device platforms (e.g. SiC for dc-ac power inverters), ii) shifting trends in energy sources for the transportation sector and power-supply industry, iii) an increasing need to integrate energy storage, management and transduction components into unconventional packaging and environments (e.g. flexible electronics) and iv) the expansion of materials sets that can be miniaturized using cleanroom based processing. These changes are creating important market opportunities but also demand increased innovation in materials development, processing, and integration across a broad array of technology platforms. A new I/UCRC in the area of dielectric and piezoelectric materials is therefore proposed to support strategic parts of the transforming capacitor and piezoelectrics industries. At a scientific level, capacitive and piezoelectric materials are both dielectric materials based on the functional control of electrostatic energy storage and/or electromechanical transduction via polarization coupling. Consequently, a center based on both technology areas is compelling, since industries in these areas are underpinned by common physical and chemical foundations.

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Fabrication of Nanofibers from Polymer Melts: Part 1 – Proposal Development and Literature Review Preparation

Taiwan Textile Research Institute(10/01/13 - 12/31/13)

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Fabrication of Nanofibers from Polymer Melts: Part 1 – Proposal Development and Literature Review Preparation

Sponsor: Taiwan Textile Research Institute

Start Date: 10/01/13

End Date: 12/31/13

Abstract

The objective of this joint project between North Carolina State University (NCSU) and Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI) is to develop a new nanofiber fabrication system by combining centrifugal spinning with electrospinning. The new nanofiber fabrication system will be able to produce nanofibers directly from polymer melts at high speed and low cost. This joint project includes two Parts. The current proposal focuses on Part 1 of the project. A proposal addressing Part 2 of the project will be developed between October 2013 and December 2013.

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Organizations

• Qingdao University - Guest Professor
• Wuhan Textile University - Yangguang Chair Professor
• Zhejiang Sci-Tech University - Guest Professor
• Journal of Energy Storage and Conversion - Editor-in-Chief
• Journal of textile Science and Engineering - Editorial Board Member
• Intenational Journal of Nano Science, Nano Engineering and Nanotechnology - Editorial Board Member
• Journal of Membrane Science & Technology - Editorial Board Member
• Global Journal of Physical Chemistry - Editorial Board Member
• Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society - Full Member
• The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) - Affiliate Member and Textile and Composites Engineering Technical Committee Member
• The Electrochemical Society (ECS) - Active Member
• The American Chemical Society (ACS) - Full Member
• Materials Research Society (MRS) - Full Member
• The Fiber Society - Full Member
• American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) - Member

Additional Information

Research Group Members

https://sites.textiles.ncsu.edu/zhang-research-group/