Description du sujet de thèse

Context: Controlled management of strategic metal resources in lithium-ion batteries (LIB) has become a pressing issue due to the exponential increase in their use in recent years. The aim of this ANR-funded POLYCRICRI project is to propose a new, innovative approach to recycling critical metals that is cleaner and less energy-intensive. This work is a collaboration between ICGM, an expert in materials chemistry (including polymers, batteries, supercritical fluids, and computational chemistry), SNAM, the European leader in rechargeable battery recycling, INOVERTIS for life cycle analysis, and IFS for communication and expertise in supercritical fluid technologies.

Objectives: This thesis aims to explore a new approach to recycling critical metals (Co, Li, Ni, Mn) contained in LIBs. The approach is based on the use of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) assisted by polymers composed of CO2-philic units to confer solubility to the polymers, and complexing units to allow the polymers to interact with metal ions [1]. The target polymers will be synthesized by controlled radical polymerization or telomerization. The proposed method is based on promising results obtained on model compounds for cobalt and lithium [2-3]. The recovered metals will be reused for the synthesis of new cathode materials, whose performance will be evaluated electrochemically in Li-ion batteries. The complexing polymers will be regenerated for a new extraction cycle. This project contributes to the circular economy of critical metals.

Contexte de travail

Candidate profile: The candidate must have a master's degree or equivalent in polymer chemistry, combined with solid experience in organic chemistry and the physical chemistry of polymers, a strong interest in innovation, and very good communication skills (English required), strong motivation, curiosity, and autonomy. Knowledge of solid-state chemistry and/or Li-ion batteries, as well as an appetite for processes, including supercritical fluid technologies, would be appreciated.

Host laboratory: The thesis will mainly be carried out at the Charles Gerhardt Institute in Montpellier (1919 route de Mende, 34000 Montpellier, France), specifically within departments D2 (Macromolecular Chemistry and Materials) and D4 (Materials Chemistry, Nanostructures, Materials for Energy). The doctoral student will also be required to carry out part of the project at SNAM (Viviez). Thesis supervisors: Patrick LACROIX-DESMAZES and Cécile BOUILHAC. EDSCB Doctoral School. Gross monthly salary of approximately €2,300/month (employer: CNRS).

Application: Submit your CV, cover letter, scores from the last five years (Bachelor's and Master's degrees) and at least two contacts and/or letters of recommendation on Portail Emploi CNRS website. For more information, please contact patrick.lacroix-desmazes@umontpellier.fr and cecile.bouilhac@umontpellier.fr

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