Thermal Recovery of Functional Coatings (TReFCo)
Lead Research Organisation:
Swansea University
Department Name: College of Engineering
Abstract
When devices such as computers, smart phones and batteries are sent for recycling not all of the materials are captured for use in new devices. The metals are most likely to be recycled because they are easy to separate and their methods of recycling are well established. Specialist coatings often made with rare and expensive materials enable our modern electronics to work. However these coatings often cause problems when it comes to recycling, they can mean that the metals are more contaminated and so these coatings are often burnt off, causing pollution and adding cost to the recycling process. It also means that the expensive cleverly engineered coating has been lost and its value not realised.
TReFCo aims to develop a low cost method for removing these coatings so that they can be reused to make new devices. This will have multiple benefits; it will mean that valuable raw materials are kept within the supply chain, supporting the UK economy. It will also mean that the materials that they were coated on are cleaner prior to their recycling process ensuring a purer recycled product at a lower cost.
The method employed by TReFCo will be to subject the coatings to near infrared radiation to burn the binder (glue) that holds the coating in place without damaging the coating material or the substrate material.
TReFCo will also develop new adhesives that will 'unglue' when exposed to near infrared radiation, making it easier (and cheaper) to take devices apart before they are recycled. This could also be used within a repair process.
In addition to the technical developments during the project a lifecycle analysis will be undertaken - this will ensure that researchers fully understand the environmental costs of producing materials and recycling them. Identifying any areas that are environmentally damaging in order that they can be avoided by material design or by changing the processing methods. In all the aim of the project is to make the possibility of a truly circular economy one step closer to being a reality.
TReFCo aims to develop a low cost method for removing these coatings so that they can be reused to make new devices. This will have multiple benefits; it will mean that valuable raw materials are kept within the supply chain, supporting the UK economy. It will also mean that the materials that they were coated on are cleaner prior to their recycling process ensuring a purer recycled product at a lower cost.
The method employed by TReFCo will be to subject the coatings to near infrared radiation to burn the binder (glue) that holds the coating in place without damaging the coating material or the substrate material.
TReFCo will also develop new adhesives that will 'unglue' when exposed to near infrared radiation, making it easier (and cheaper) to take devices apart before they are recycled. This could also be used within a repair process.
In addition to the technical developments during the project a lifecycle analysis will be undertaken - this will ensure that researchers fully understand the environmental costs of producing materials and recycling them. Identifying any areas that are environmentally damaging in order that they can be avoided by material design or by changing the processing methods. In all the aim of the project is to make the possibility of a truly circular economy one step closer to being a reality.
Organisations
- Swansea University (Lead Research Organisation)
- Centre for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (CINVESTAV) (Collaboration)
- solapak (Collaboration)
- Strathmore University (Collaboration)
- Open University (Collaboration)
- Technical University of Kenya (Collaboration)
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (Collaboration)
- Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (Collaboration)
- University of Bath (Collaboration)
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Collaboration)
- Indian Institute of Science Bangalore (Collaboration)
- Government of Wales (Collaboration)
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Collaboration)
- Kebangsaan University (Collaboration)
- Catholic University of Bukavu (Collaboration)
- HINCKLEY EWASTE RECYCLING (Collaboration)
- Royal Society of Chemistry (Collaboration)
- Egerton University (Collaboration)
- École Supérieure en Sciences Appliquées de Tlemcen (Collaboration)
- Copenhagen Business School (Collaboration)
- Giraffe Innovations Limited (Collaboration)
- University Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar (Collaboration)
- Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (Collaboration)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (Collaboration)
- Keeling and Walker Limited (Project Partner)
- PLUG LIFE CONSULTING LTD (Project Partner)
- Precision Varionic International Ltd PVi (Project Partner)
- WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Prog) (Project Partner)
- Elemental Inks & Chemicals (Project Partner)
- Tata Group UK (Project Partner)
- adphos Group (International) (Project Partner)
Publications
Charles R
(2023)
Circular economy for perovskite solar cells - drivers, progress and challenges
in Energy & Environmental Science
Griffin R
(2022)
Comparative Study of Radiative Heating Techniques for Fast Processing of Functional Coatings for Sustainable Energy Applications Applications of radiative mechanisms in solar energy, battery storage and fuel cells
in Johnson Matthey Technology Review
Harper G
(2023)
Roadmap for a sustainable circular economy in lithium-ion and future battery technologies
in Journal of Physics: Energy
Harper, G.D.J.
(2023)
Upcycle for Enhanced Performance
in Nature Sustainability
Li Y
(2025)
Comparative environmental impacts analysis of technologies for recovering critical metals from copper anode slime: Insights from LCA
in Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology
Ma X
(2025)
The evolution of lithium-ion battery recycling
in Nature Reviews Clean Technology
MartĂ Valls R
(2024)
A facile method to obtain colloidal dispersions of nickel hydroxide: Improving the processing of nickel oxide and facilitating its upscaling for perovskite-type solar devices
in Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Valadez-Villalobos K
(2024)
Remanufacturing of perovskite solar cells
in RSC Sustainability
Valls R
(2024)
A new approach for obtaining ceramic NASICON (Na 3 Zr 2 Si 2 PO 12 ) films sintered in situ by a sol-gel method, using spray deposition and near-infra red sintering
in Journal of Materials Chemistry A
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| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Government of Wales |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
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| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | HINCKLEY EWASTE RECYCLING |
| Country | Nigeria |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
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| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Indian Institute of Science Bangalore |
| Country | India |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur |
| Country | India |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Kebangsaan University |
| Country | Indonesia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Strathmore University |
| Country | Kenya |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | Technical University of Kenya |
| Country | Kenya |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization |
| Country | France |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | University Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar |
| Country | Senegal |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | University of KwaZulu-Natal |
| Country | South Africa |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | solapak |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies |
| Organisation | École Supérieure en Sciences Appliquées de Tlemcen |
| Country | Algeria |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our team at Swansea University leads the UNESCO Chair initiative, focusing on: Developing low-cost, efficient, and sustainable printable photovoltaic technologies tailored for low- and middle-income countries. Integrating circular economy principles to ensure the reuse, remanufacture, and recycling of photovoltaic materials, thereby minimising environmental impact. Coordinating international collaborations to foster local sustainable energy solutions through a science-based approach. Advancing education and entrepreneurship in renewable energy technologies to empower communities. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our partners contribute in various capacities, including: Academic Institutions: Conducting research and development in sustainable energy technologies, providing local insights, and facilitating community engagement. Private Sector Partners: Offering industry expertise, supporting the development of local manufacturing capabilities, and aiding in the commercialisation of technologies. Government Partner: Providing policy support and aligning the initiative with regional and national sustainable development goals. Non-Governmental Organisation: Engaging with communities to implement educational programs and promote the adoption of renewable energy solutions. |
| Impact | Prof. Davies' appointment as the UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies has further elevated the group's global standing. The Chair focuses on advancing sustainable, locally manufactured solar technologies, integrating circular economy principles, and supporting capacity-building in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). This has strengthened international collaborations, particularly in Africa, and contributed to Swansea University securing £3 million funding for the REACH-PSM (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing) project. This initiative, aligned with the UNESCO Chair's goals, aims to revolutionize solar energy access in Africa by supporting sustainable, community-driven development and manufacturing of perovskite solar modules. Key outputs from the UNESCO Chair include: Engagement with UNESCO's Priority Africa and Campus Africa programmes, supporting initiatives that advance sustainable energy solutions across the continent. Hosting an international symposium at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in January 2025, focused on sustainable next-generation photovoltaics and fostering South-South collaboration. Securing £3 million through the UKRI Ayrton Fund to drive forward the REACH-PSM project, advancing local manufacturing and circular economy approaches for solar technologies in Africa. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | Catholic University of Bukavu |
| Country | Congo, the Democratic Republic of the |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | Copenhagen Business School |
| Country | Denmark |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | Open University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | Pontifical Catholic University of Chile |
| Country | Chile |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | University of Bath |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain (Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research) |
| Organisation | University of Chinese Academy of Sciences |
| Country | China |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Part of a network led by Copenhagen Business School to explore Weath and value entanglements in the Lithium Ion Battery Supply Chain - providing technical expertise and knowledge gained from UKRI funded projects to a group that is focused around the social sciences understanding the flows of material, wealth and value in the global Lithium Ion Battery Supply chain. Attended workshops at the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile in Santiago. |
| Collaborator Contribution | A network development grant bringing together a consortium of 16 researchers across six countries to investigate entanglements of wealth and value in the global lithium-ion battery chain, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Research. In 2024 and 2025, we will meet in China, Chile, and Australia (hosted by a partner university in each country) to work towards the final project output of submitting a major consortium bid by mid-2025. Short title £100,000 Status Active Effective start/end date 1/01/24 ? 27/06/25 |
| Impact | Publication outputs from the network have not been generated yet, however, there are a number of working papers in process. The network has resulted in a number of workshops that have been funded by the network, which represent an in-kind contribution to our research. The collaboration is multidisciplinary cutting across the physical and social sciences, with collaborators based in Business and Management, Economic Geography, Geology and the Social Sciences. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | 6th Annual Electrification & Battery Development For Non-Road Applications Forum, "Effective Management for End of Life Batteries" |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | A great number of CO2 limiting legislation for passenger cars and heavy-duty vehicles is becoming more and more pressing and boosts the electrification development also in the sector of non-road mobile machinery. However, a great number of large and heavy mobile machinery is still powered by internal combustion engines, and their power transmission solutions and designs have to be reconsidered in order to keep up with the demands of the regulators. Due to the fact that the challenges of electrifying machinery are present on different system levels, it is crucial to create solutions through the collaboration of many parties. TBM is proud to present the 6th annual Electrification and Battery Development for Non-Road Applications conference which aims to present effective solutions for the main challenges that the industry is currently facing. The event will cover such essential topics as power supply in remote sites, overcoming barriers to implementation of FCEVs, component integration with the vehicle, battery technologies and much more. The participants at the event will be able to gain a great number of perspectives on what does the future hold for fully electric and fuel cell powertrains while drawing lessons from new solutions that can speed up and simplify the transition to a cleaner future. This event will feature: Power supply in remote sites Thermal management for electric drivelines Overcoming barriers to implementation of FCEVs Achieving component integration with the vehicle Battery electric vs. fuel cell-powered machines Electric vehicle cooling systems Developing practical reliability assessment methods Recent developments in electric engine technology Controlling the battery temperature in tough environments Charging solutions enabling 8-hour operation Battery technologies that match the needs of the user |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://tbmgroup.eu/etn/6th-annual-electrification-battery-development-for-non-road-applications-for... |
| Description | ABD'nin kendi madenleri varken Trump neden Ukrayna'ninkileri istiyor? |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Interview with Jeremy Howell about Critical Materials and Trump's Minerals Deal in Ukraine. Contributed to global understanding of the role of emerging Critical Materials conflicts in geopolitical tensions. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.bbc.com/turkce/articles/cqjdezpexx2o |
| Description | BBC Mundo Data Team - Critical Materials Visual Storytelling Infographic in 22 Languages |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | The BBC's Mundo Data Team, created a visual infographic web page, which explained the challenges around Critical Materials, in a visual storytelling format, with scrollable animated infographics. This was published by the BBC internationally, and translated into around 22 languages in order to reach diverse international audiences in their own languages. The URL link is given for the story in Spanish, however, this has also been translated into a wide array of other languages. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.bbc.com/mundo/resources/idt-785327f3-1924-47dd-bc5c-deea29a07e0a |
| Description | BBC Radio 4 - Inside Science - Interview on the Circular Economy of Lithium Ion Batteries - Broadcast Date TBC |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Interviewed for a forthcoming BBC Radio 4 Production "Inside Science" on the Circular Economy of Lithium Ion Batteries |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b036f7w2 |
| Description | Battery Recycling Europe, 1st March, London, UK A Future Roadmap for Lithium Ion Battery Recycling |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Conference Presentation on A Future Roadmap for Lithium Ion Battery Recycling |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.wplgroup.com/aci/event/battery-recycling-europe/ |
| Description | Bridgend Science Festival |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The team hosted a hands on table top demonstration mainly aimed at children although adults also engaged particularly with discussions with the team about recycling. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023,2024 |
| Description | Burlington Consensus 2 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | This was an invitation only event hosted by the RSC to eastblish priority issues for assessment by the Science-Policy Panel and how best to involve stakeholders' expertise. The SPP was established following a UN resolution that an IPCC / IPBES like international intergovernmental body should be established to deal with issues of pollution and the prevention of waste. The RSC are named key stakeholders in this and are supporting the UN in the process of establishing the Panel. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.rsc.org/news-events/features/2023/jan/burlington-consensus-2/ |
| Description | Chair of "Battery Recycling Europe 2023" |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Chair of Battery Recycling Europe 2023, Royal Horseguards Hotel, London 1st-2nd March 2023 ACI's Battery Recycling Europe conference will take place on 1st-2nd March 2023 in London, UK. The conference will bring together Battery Recycling industry experts, collection scheme operators and battery manufacturers to learn, share and discuss the current and emerging topics in the Battery Recycling industry. The two-day event will give you an insight on the latest EU regulations, newest recycling technologies, and commercial benefits of battery recycling. ACI'S Battery Recycling Europe will also showcase future opportunities in the Battery Recycling Market and blend together inspirational keynotes, informative sessions, and wonderful networking opportunities. Topics Including: European Battery Recycling Market Overview. Current and Future Battery Recycling Projects and Facilities. Assessing New European Battery Recycling Regulations Challenges to Ensure Safety and Best Practise Enhancing the 2nd Life of Batteries Processing Black Mass Evolving Sustainability and Circularity New Technological Advances Recycling Li-ion Phosphate and Energy Storage Systems Battery Design to Enable more Efficient Recycling Speakers Including: Cesar Santos, Policy Officer, European Commission. John Redmayne, Managing Director - UK, ERP UK. Timm Lux, Associate Director, Non-Ferrous Metals & Recycling, Boston Consulting Group. Sam Haig, Battery Recycling Business Manager, R S Bruce. Hans Eric Melin, Managing Director, Circular Energy Storage. Dr Lin Xiao, CEO, Botree Cycling. Till Bussmann, CTO, Duesenfeld GmbH. Johan van Peperzeel, CEO, Van Peperzeel. Helen Waters, Head of Electric Battery Recycling, European Metal Recycling (EMR). Martina Petranikova, Associate Professor, Chalmers University of Technology. Julia Harty & Lee Allen, Fastmarkets Louise Drue Andersen, Business Developer - Product Area Batteries, Stena Recycling. Daniel Bien, Global Fluids Technical Advisor, Exxonmobil. Jeff Borrman, Director of Battery Division, Cellcycle Ltd. Georgios Chryssos, CEO, GRS Batterien. Gavin Harper, Faraday Institute Research Fellow, University of Birmingham. Takamitsu Utsumi, Manager, Asahi Kasei. Kamila Slupek, Sustainability Director, Eurometaux. Philipp tho-Pesch, Sustainable Battery Engineer, Henkel. Ian Braime, Chief Commercial Director, Ascend Elements. Robbie Staniforth, Innovation and Policy Director, Ecosurety. Michelle Lynch, Director, Enabled Future Ltd. Peter Hessler, Acting Partner and CEO, Urt Recycling Technology. Mina Ha, Senior Research Analyst, Rho Motion. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.wplgroup.com/aci/event/battery-recycling-europe/ |
| Description | Chairing "Battery Recycling Europe" 2024 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Following 3 successful editions, ACI is delighted to announce the 4th Battery Recycling Europe Summit, taking place in London, UK, on the 28th & 29th February 2024. The European battery recycling market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for battery-powered devices and electric vehicles. Strict regulations and policies, such as the EU Battery Directive, have been implemented to ensure the safe and environmentally responsible management of end-of-life batteries, fostering a robust recycling infrastructure and promoting the circular economy within the region. On the 28th & 29th February 2024, the two-day event is dedicated to advancing the knowledge and collaboration in the field of battery recycling within Europe. Our conference brings together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the battery recycling ecosystem to exchange insights, discuss emerging trends, and explore innovative solutions for a sustainable future. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.wplgroup.com/aci/event/battery-recycling-europe/ |
| Description | Critical minerals docuseries by the RSC |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | I was interviewed as an expert for inclusion in a 4 part docuseries commisioned by the RSC on the subject of CRMs |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Daily Telegraph Interview: The electric cars with the best - and worst - battery life if you're looking to buy in 2022, Vicky Parrott, 2nd September 2022 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Newspaper article on electric vehicle battery life. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/features/best-worst-battery-life-evs-electric-cars-charger-buy-2022... |
| Description | Energy Warriors |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | School children from the region were invited to Swansea University for a day learning about Solar energy. As part of this I gave an introductory talk to the children about how solar cells work and ran lab pracs for the children in which they made their own dye-sensitized solar cells. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.specific.eu.com/energy-warriors-outreach/ |
| Description | Entanglements of Wealth and Value in the Lithium-ion Battery Chain |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A networking project, funded by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science and led by Duncan Wigan of Copenhagen Business School organised this workshop in Santiago, Chile. Interaction with in-country experts about the Lithium supply chain, critical to the manufacture of Lithium Ion Batteries. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.linkedin.com/posts/gavindjharper_esta-semana-tuvimos-el-segundo-taller-del-activity-7287... |
| Description | House of Commons, Commons Terrace Reception |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Sir Jeremy Wright KC MP hosted a reception for 170 delegates on 30 January 2024, that focused on 'our electric future, opportunities in UK battery innovation'. Proudly hosted by the Faraday Battery Challenge (FBC), delivered by Innovate UK, in collaboration with its delivery partners, The Faraday Institution (FI) and the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC). The evening brought together stakeholders from across the public and private sectors to explore the transformative impact the challenge has had on the sustainable development of the UK's battery industry. The event, underscored the critical need for a sustainable UK battery industry, one underpinned by relentless scientific and innovative endeavours that deliver cost-effective, high-performance, durable, safe and recyclable batteries. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| URL | https://www.ukri.org/news/faraday-battery-challenge-illuminates-parliament/ |
| Description | IMRC 2022 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Gave an invited talk at the International Materials Research Congress, 2022, Cancun, Mexico. QUANTIFYING THE WASTE PROBLEM PV DEPLOYMENT, AND THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY OPPORTUNITY FOR EMERGING PV, Rhys Charles and Matthew Davies. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.mrs-mexico.org.mx/imrc2022/abstracts-read.php?r=02626&id=6 |
| Description | Institute of Physics, London & South East Region, Recycling and Reusing Electric Vehicle Components |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Institute of Physics Regional Lecture at the University of Hertforshire As the number of electric vehicles on our roads increases, the demand for the critical materials used to make key vehicle components is predicted to soar. The question looms what to do with the batteries when these vehicles reach the end of life? This lecture will explore the pathways to a circular economy of electric vehicle batteries and the magnetic materials used in electric vehicle motors. Dr Gavin Harper helped to establish the University of Birmingham's Centre for Strategic Elements and Critical Materials, the UK's first centre dedicated to the study of the challenges around materials criticality. He is currently a Research Fellow with the UKRI Interdisciplinary Centre for the Circular Economy of Technology Metals |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.iop.org/events/recycling-and-reusing-electric-vehicle-components-dr-gavin-harper#gref |
| Description | Interview for BBC radio4 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Interview for Inside Science with BBC radio 4. Discussed solid state batteries and implications of new research on future battery capability (lifetime / speed of charging etc). I have had a number of contacts after the interview regarding potential collaboration. Helping the general public become more informed about batteries and future research was the aim of the programme. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://deepcast.fm/episode/next-gen-batteries-and-dark-oxygen |
| Description | Invited participation and invited talk at the First IOCD North/South Collaborative Workshop on Energy |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | One of the aims of the workshop was to develop a regional network across the Americas, involving scientists with similar interests centred around a common theme (e.g. renewable energy technologies), and possibly several smaller, more focused networks (for example one on energy storage, another on solar fuels, etc.). Keywords / list of topics: Renewable Energy Technologies Solar Technologies: photovoltaics, hydrogen production from water, solar fuels, solar windows Materials for Solid State Lighting Materials for next generation storage technologies: batteries, supercapacitors Energy materials |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | http://www.iocd.org/CancunConf/cancunconf.shtml |
| Description | Invited seminar on Printable Energy Storage and sustainability (Tampere University , Finland) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Invited seminar on Printable Energy Storage and sustainability: the invited seminar and associated discussion facilitated exchange of ideas for potential International projects on energy storage and printed electronics |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Invited talk at the UNESCO Chairs UK conference |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Meeting with fellow UK UNESCO Chairs and UK National Commission to UNESCO |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Keynote Presentation: 8th International Conference on Battery Technologies and Management Systems for Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Systems, Automotive IQ, 27th to 29th September 2022, The Waldorf Astoria, Berlin, Germany: Battery Recycling Techniques, Technologies and Associated Costs |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | FOCUS DAY | TUESDAY, 27th SEPTEMBER, 2022 9:00 AM BATTERY RECYCLING | TECHNIQUES, TECHNOLOGIES, AND ASSOCIATED COSTS Battery recycling might not be a problem today, but the recycling business is booming and is a major trend for the battery domain. We are seeing a lot of players investing in this and in the assessment phase. This presentation and interactive discussion take a deep dive into some of the biggest questions on the OEM's and cell supplier's minds right now, with the end of goal of providing real world insight on: Different techniques of recycling and types of recycling facilities Technologies available for recycling Expected cost of recycling Benefits recycling can bring in terms of what you have to pay, what you get back, and what the whole cycle of raw material is going to look like How can the battery be structured to think about the recyclability How to handle the innovations in lithium-ion cells recycling How to enable battery packs to be disassembled in an efficient & environmentally friendly way What the industry can do together to introduce recycling of batteries |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.automotive-iq.com/events-battery-technologies-management-systems/speakers/gavin-harper |
| Description | Member of the Senior Innovation and Leadership Forum of the Royal Society of Chemistry |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | As a member of the RSC SILF I get to feed into RSC policy and direction, helping develop RSC to maintain its role as a useful and relevant professional body for the chemical sciences. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023,2024 |
| Description | NAATBatt Workshop, Lithium Ion Battery Recycling at the Birmingham Centre for Strategic Elements & Critical Materials, NAATBatt International, Lithium Battery Recycling Workshop V, August 8-9, 2022, Michigan Union, Ann Arbor, University of Michigan |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | ABOUT THE WORKSHOP Efficient Recycling Of Lithium Batteries In North America Is Now A Top Priority For Vehicle OEM's, Battery Makers And Government The lithium, nickel, and cobalt recoverable from battery recycling will be critical in addressing anticipated shortages of the raw materials needed to manufacture high capacity lithium-ion batteries. Recycling and reusing lithium batteries will also be vital to achieving the carbon reduction goals of vehicle electrification. The NAATBatt Lithium Battery Recycling Workshop V program will present the latest information about the economics and technology of lithium battery recycling and reuse. Speakers will include leading experts on the economics of lithium battery recycling, the technology of lithium battery recycling, government assistance available to battery recyclers, and regulatory and legal matters related to lithium battery recycling and reuse. Battery Recycling photo 1 (Umicore USA) ABOUT THE WORKSHOP The Workshop Will Examine The Emerging Options For Battery Owners In The Battery Recycling Marketplace NAATBatt has invited the leading battery recycling companies in North America that have announced firm plans to develop industrial-scale operations to make short presentations, back to back, outlining their plans. The major vehicle OEM's will be there to hear what they have to say, and possibly to make some choices. ABOUT THE WORKSHOP NAATBatt Programs Are About Making New Connections The program will include plenty of networking opportunities and a workshop dinner on Monday evening, August 8, at the famous Original Cottage Inn Pizza restaurant in Ann Arbor. As always, NAATBatt programs are about making new connections and doing business with other companies active in the North American advanced battery supply chain. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://nac.naatbatt.org/lithium-battery-recycling-workshop-v/ |
| Description | New York Times: Electric Cars Are Taking Off, but When Will Battery Recycling Follow? |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | Quoted in the New York Times article |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/21/business/energy-environment/battery-recycling-electric-vehicles.h... |
| Description | Outreach in Durban, South Africa |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Participated as part of a team made up of Swansea university and UKZN members, running a day of outreach for school children from local townships. We helped the children make Dye Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs) using tea and materials we had prepared and brought with us from the UK. Working with 30 students aged 14-17 was extremely rewarding, seeing their enthusiasm for renewable energy and science, being able to share knowledge and give them experience of practical science that they may otherwise not have had given the economic challenges schools face in the area. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Presentation to University of Pennsylvania, Centre for Sustainable Separation of Metals, Sustainability Ambassadors - Russia's War in Ukraine: The Impact on Critical Materials Supply |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Invited presentation (online) to the University of Pennsylvania's Centre for the Sustainable Separation of Metals |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.cssm.upenn.edu/sustainability-ambassadors-program/ |
| Description | RSC CSCE |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | I was an invited member of the Advisory group to the RSC Chemistry, Sustainability and Circular Economy (CSCE) program. This program examined issues related to global sustainability and the role of Roy Soc Chem in helping to deliver this. The programme of work focussed on Chemistry, Sustainability and the Circular Economy (CSCE) and the role which chemistry can play in providing a solution for the associated challenges. It examined issues with education around sustainability, resulted in RSC joining the Race to net zero and developing a comprehensive plan for emissions reduction across the organization, and delivered a program of public engagement activities including a global experiment and numerous events around COP26 climate talks. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021,2022 |
| Description | RSC Sustainability Forum Panel disucssion at AGM |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Participated as an expert panel member for the RSC (Roy. Soc. Chem.) Sustainability Forum discussions ahead of the 2022 AGM. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://members.rsc.org/site/content/Governance/AnnualGeneralMeeting.aspx |
| Description | ReLIB Project Conference, University of Birmingham |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Participation in the ReLIB (Recycling & Reuse of Lithium Ion Batteries) project funded by The Faraday Institution, acting as a bridge between the TReFCo project and the ReLIB project, aggregating knowledge and encouraging collaboration around the Recycling of Lithium Ion Batteries. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Research Symposium at UKZN, Durban South Africa |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Travelled as part of a team from Swansea University to Durban, RSA in September 2023. In Durban I was able to spend time with collaborators at the University of KwaZulu Natal, strengthening existing collaborations with the school of Chemistry and Physics where we were hosted by Professor Bice Martincigh and Professor Vincent Nyamori. This gave us time to plan a paper which has since been submitted to RSC Sustainability. I was also able to deliver an invited talk as part of a symposium for staff and students of the faculty, to showcase our research and emphasize the importance of solar energy and adoption of circular economy for the future. This gave me the opportunity to learn about research ongoing in UKZN with relevance to sustainable development within the sub-Saharan African region, and raise the profile of my own research for collaboration on solutions to growing environmental and socio-economic issues arising in the region. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Reuse, Refurbishment and Recycling of Critical Metals and Materials, UK-India Academia Scoping Workshop, 6-7 March, 2023, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | A workshop organised by the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, Mumbai India, the British High Commission, New Delhi and the Royal Society of Chemistry to explore UK-India opportunities |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Reuters Breaking Views 'The Exchange' Podcast: |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
| Results and Impact | (Reuters Breakingviews) - China dominates the processing of stuff essential to the energy transition. Rich countries can shift the balance if they accept more mining at home. Most of all, Europe needs to be better at recycling, critical materials expert Gavin Harper explains in the Exchange podcast. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/how-west-can-win-green-metals-race-podcast-2023-11-21/ |
| Description | UNESCO / Welsh Government Lunch and Learn |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | Brief talk at a Welsh Government Lunch and Learn to describe the Swansea University UNESCO Chair and Introduce the UK Ambassador and permanent delegate to UNESCO |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Unexpected Elements radio BBC world service - ask the expert |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Answered an 'ask the expert' question on why batteries do not work as well in the cold. The question was sent in by a member of the public. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2025 |
| URL | https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/w3ct5q32 |
| Description | Workshop: British Standards Institution: Critical Materials Standards Programme |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | The British Standards Institution is undertaking activity to scope what standards are going to be required in the Critical Materials space going forwards. Workshop with experts in the Critical Material space to help BSI take a view on gaps, with a particular focus on circularity. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Workshop: Manufacturing and the Circular Economy, Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre, Recycling Lithium Ion Batteries 13th February, 2023 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Workshop held at the AMTC exploring opportunities around manufacturing and the Circular Economy. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |