Design and recycling of electrolytes for next generation batteries focus on Calcium-Ion and Lithium-Ion based systems

This thesis explores the design and recycling of electrolytes for next-generation energy storage systems, focusing on two primary areas: the recycling of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4 ) battery electrolytes and the design of multivalent calcium-ion electrolytes. The growing demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions necessitates advancements beyond conventional lithium-ion systems, which face challenges such as limited resource availability and environmental impact. Innovations in lithium-based electrolytes that incorporate end-of-life considerations and account for degradation during recycling, particularly under atmospheric exposure, are important for improving battery lifespan and sustainability. In parallel, calcium-ion technology emerges as a promising multivalent-ion alternative, representing a paradigm shift that combines improved energy density with superior material sustainability. Advancements in electrolyte design for calcium-ion batteries are essential to overcoming challenges related to ionic conductivity and electrochemical stability, enabling their practical implementation. This research integrates experimental techniques such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy with computational methods including Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to investigate the electrochemical behavior, structural stability, and recyclability of these electrolytes. The findings provide methodological insights for the development of sustainable, high performance electrolytes and support the integration of circular economy principles into future energy storage technologies.