Synthesis and characterisation of polycarbonates from spent lithium battery electrolytes

Abstract

With spent lithium batteries piling up, the green and high-value utilisation of spent lithium-ion batteries (s-LIBs) becomes increasingly crucial. To address this issue, it is essential to prepare high-value copolycarbonates with s-LIBs. In this study, the range of copolycarbonates of isosorbide (ISB), bisphenol A (BPA), and s-LIBs were synthesised using 1,3-(p-toluic acid Zinc Salt)Im ZnCl3 as a catalyst. In this way, high-molecular weight copolycarbonates (PIBs) (Mw=57,000–110,000 g/mol) were obtained. By introducing thermally stable and flexible ISB units, the thermal stability of copolycarbonates was enhanced, and the flexibility of polymer chains improved. This study showcased the potential for developing environment-friendly soft polycarbonates that can overcome the inherent brittleness of BPA polycarbonates.