Behind advancements in the creation of the world’s most energy-dense 18650 Li-ion cell is Dr. Nigel Becknell, NanoGraf’s Director of Technology Development. Since 2012, NanoGraf has been developing its battery business to enhance electrification across several industries, leading to lower reliance on fossil fuel.

Dr. Becknell oversees NanoGraf’s materials, research, and innovation, leading a Technology Development team that pushes the envelope of battery performance. Working hand-in-hand with the Manufacturing & Operations team, they’re ensuring that the innovations don’t just remain on paper but translate to real-world applications. Additionally, by collaborating with the Cell Development team, they are constantly assessing and refining materials used, ensuring optimum performance.

Nigel’s journey began with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. This educational foundation, combined with his passion for sustainability and clean energy, led him to a Postdoctoral Fellow at Argonne National Laboratory, researching materials performance across different battery types.

While Dr. Becknell acknowledges the significance of technical expertise, he believes in the collective effort scientists, engineers, and a plethora of other professionals are needed to usher in a sustainable future.