Pioneer laid foundation for China's battery brilliance(2)

A worker monitors a production line for the battery casings for new energy vehicles in Ningde, Fujian province, last month. (WANG WANGWANG/FOR CHINA DAILY)

The scientist's influence extends far beyond his scientific achievements; he is also a revered mentor who has shaped the careers of countless scientists and entrepreneurs in China's lithium battery industry.

His students, many of whom now hold key positions in academia, research institutions and leading companies, describe him as a visionary scientist with an unwavering commitment to nurturing talent.

Now in his 80s, Chen continues to spend long hours in the lab, reviewing data, discussing new ideas and offering feedback.

His former student Zeng Yuqun, founder of CATL, the world's largest battery manufacturer, credits Chen with inspiring him to pursue innovation and excellence in the field of energy storage.

"He didn't just teach us how to make batteries, he taught us how to think big and dream bigger," Zeng said.

Chen believes that true innovation comes from understanding every aspect of the research and production process.

"He often went to the lab with us and got his hands dirty alongside us," recalled Li Hong, one of Chen's students, who is now a researcher at the Institute of Physics at the CAS, and a leading scientist in the field of solid-state batteries in China.

Together with Chen, he was the first to propose and industrialize the in situ solidification technology route for solid-state batteries on a global scale.

"He taught us that to solve real-world problems, you need to be deeply involved in every step, from material synthesis to battery assembly," Li said.

"He always told us that our work wasn't just about science; it was about securing the future of our country," said Huang Xuejie, another prominent student who now leads research at the Institute of Physics.

His students, now leaders in their own right, carry forward his vision of an "Electric China", where clean energy and advanced battery technology power the nation's future.

As Chen himself puts it: "The work we do today will shape the world of tomorrow. And I have no doubt that the next generation will take it even further."