Ito Yuta is a guest researcher at the MEET Battery Energy Research Centre

From Japan to Germany: To further advance his research, Ito Yuta, scientist at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) in Japan, is working as a guest researcher at Battery Research Center at the University of Münster for a few weeks. He focuses on dual carbon and lithium/graphite fluoride batteries as well as organic and inorganic hybrid electrolytes. In addition, Yuta investigates evaluation techniques for aging reactions on sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. During his PhD studies at Kyoto University, he conducted research on carbon-based positive electrodes under the supervision of Prof. Takeshi Abe. For example, he attempted anion intercalation into graphite in aqueous electrolytes and investigated the electrochemical reaction of carbon positive electrodes with fluoride ions. In this interview, he explains why he came to Germany and specifically to Battery Research Center for his research and why he recommends students to spend time abroad.

What research are you conducting at ?

Ito Yuta: At Battery Research Center, I am conducting research to investigate the cycle degradation of positive electrodes in all-solid-state batteries. For this purpose, I can use the state-of-the-art analytical technology and methods at , such as time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. The technique provides detailed elemental and molecular information about the surface, thin layers and interfaces of the samples and enables a complete three-dimensional analysis. Thanks to the close collaboration with the Analytics team - such as Niklas Markus Abke - I have already achieved initial progress in my research.

Why did you decide to join temporarily?

Ito Yuta: I want to intensify the collaboration with the scientists and at the same time further promote German-Japanese joint research. One example of this collaboration are the AReLiS projects. Their aim is to develop, investigate and optimize novel cell designs, materials, electrode coatings and electrolytes for sulfur-based battery systems. I hope to recruit many more young researchers from for this valuable cooperation.

Why would you recommend other students to go abroad?

Ito Yuta: I think it is a valuable experience just to be stimulated by the different environment, language, lifestyle, and culture. This encourages not only professional but also personal development. I would have liked to have gone abroad during my PhD studies. Unfortunately, that was not possible due to the pandemic. I am all the more pleased to now be able to conduct research at and thank my employer for sending me to pursue my studies further in Germany.

What do you like about Germany/Münster?

Ito Yuta: I really enjoy my 15-minute bike ride to work. In Japan, people use hand signs and bells not very often, but in Münster, I feel that they are essential. I am also amazed at how fast everyone in Münster pedaled their bicycles. This is indeed a city of bicycles. Moreover, I am addicted to great beer and the German chocolate.

What are the biggest differences between Japan and Germany?

Ito Yuta: I experienced many differences. For example, there are no ticket gates at certain stations here. Sometimes I need to pay to use the restroom. There is also no deposit for plastic bottles in Japan. I also find it uncommon - in a positive way - for people to smile at me on the street, even if they do not know me. In Japan, we are a bit more reluctant to do so.