Zhenghao Zhou

Hometown: Chengdu, Sichuan China

Undergraduate Degree: Mining and Minerals Engineering

Research Title: Graphite recycling from battery factory anode scrap

Research Story: Graphite is one of key components in lithium-ion battery production. While anode sheets are cut into desired shapes, materials on scraps are mostly discarded. This research is on a journey to achieve a goal which allows the graphite material to be collected and recycled in battery productions. Series of collection, cleansing, examine are required in the research to ensure the quality of graphite could be reused in the production. By improving the usage efficiency of graphite material, the cost of battery production could be lowered.

How did you get interested in mining?

I once wondered, “So what is down there underground? How can we get that out?”

What are your career aspirations after completing your degree?

I hope to become a researcher in academia and would like to work on analytical research.

What advice do you have for future graduate students?

Plan ahead, you will never know what could go wrong.

What is a fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I travel a lot, but I never have jet lag.

What's your favorite meal to eat or cook?

Sichuan style cold dishes.

What's your favorite thing about Virginia Tech?

The weather is just perfect in Blacksburg.