Arthur Benson - 2026 Goldwater & Astronaut Scholar
Arthur is majoring in chemical engineering with a concentration in data science and a minor in music.
At KU, Arthur conducts research under the mentorship of Dr. Yiling Nan, with his main project aimed at designing electrolytes for lithium–sulfur batteries.
Lithium–sulfur batteries show promise for applications in energy storage due to their high energy density and low material cost. However, they suffer from a problem called the “shuttle effect”: as the battery cycles, sulfur compounds generated at the cathode dissolve into the electrolyte and migrate to the lithium anode, where they react and degrade the battery. Previous work has shown that certain electrolyte additives can encapsulate these dissolved sulfur compounds within a protective chemical “shell.” This keeps them from reacting with the lithium anode, helping the battery last longer.
Arthur’s goal is to understand how these electrolyte additives are distributed throughout lithium–sulfur batteries, particularly at the lithium anode interface (where the undesirable reactions occur). Using molecular dynamics simulations, he is measuring the microscopic density profiles of several electrolyte mixtures across a range of voltages. He is also working to develop a machine learning model, which will inform the design of longer-lasting batteries by indicating which electrolyte mixtures are most promising to test in a laboratory setting. Following graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in chemical engineering focused on hybrid energy storage systems.
More information about Arthur:
- He plays drums in the KU Jazz Combos.
- He was the president of the KU Chess Club and continues to be an active member.
- His favorite study spot is the KU Chemical and Petroleum Engineering student lounge, and he is currently collaborating on a project to remodel the space.
- He is helping to organize the 2027 AlChE Mid-America Student Regional Conference at KU through his role as Director of Registration and Finance.