Research
Shadeepa Karunarathne is conducting his doctoral research in Material Science from Bournemouth University, focusing on multifunctional electrocatalytic cathodes for lithium-air and lithium-oxygen batteries. He previously worked as a Science Group Leader at the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC), leading projects on graphene-based nanomaterials, printed electronics, and energy storage solutions.
His research spans lithium-ion, lithium-air, and lithium-metal batteries, as well as green hydrogen technologies, with expertise in electrode materials, defect engineering, and electrocatalysis. He has published 15 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, holds a patent on graphene-based sensor technology, and has presented his work at international conferences.
Shadeepa has collaborated with academic and industrial partners, contributing to fundamental research and translational innovations. He has received several awards, including the Doctoral College Outstanding Contribution Award and the RSC Best Poster Award for Advanced Battery Materials.
He is keenly interested in Li-CO₂ batteries, integrating CO₂ capture with energy storage. His work directly supports the UK’s Net Zero goals by advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Electrocatalysis and Sustainable Energy Storage
My research focuses on the development of advanced electrocatalytic materials for next-generation energy storage and conversion technologies. I specialize in lithium-air, lithium-metal, and lithium-ion batteries, with an emphasis on electrode material design, defect engineering, and electrochemical performance optimization. By integrating nanomaterials and tailored catalytic architectures, I aim to enhance the efficiency, stability, and sustainability of energy storage systems.
Carbon Nanomaterials and Functional Interfaces
Beyond battery technologies, I have a strong interest in carbon nanomaterials and their applications in electrochemical systems. My research spans the synthesis, functionalization, and structural tuning of graphene-based and transition metal oxide, phosphide, and heterogeneous materials for energy applications. I have worked extensively on 2D material-based electrodes, defect-engineered catalysts, and hybrid nanostructures to optimize reaction kinetics in energy storage and conversion devices.
Currently, I am expanding my research to explore molten salt batteries, advanced redox chemistries, and novel recycling strategies for spent lithium-ion batteries to enable a circular economy in energy storage.
Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person's work contributes towards the following SDGs:
Clean water and sanitation
"Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all"
Affordable and clean energy
"Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all"
Industry, innovation and infrastructure
"Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation"
Responsible consumption and production
"Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns"
