Sustainability in Power Electronics

As the world transitions towards a more sustainable future, there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability in the environmental impact of manufactured products. In the realm of power electronics, this translates into a pressing need for manufacturers to comprehensively assess and declare the environmental footprint of their products throughout their entire life cycle. This project aims to address this critical demand by conducting a thorough life cycle assessment (LCA) and material analysis of power electronics. The LCA methodology will encompass all stages of the product's life, from the extraction and processing of raw materials to the manufacturing process, transportation, usage, and eventual disposal or recycling. This comprehensive approach will provide a holistic understanding of the environmental impacts associated with power electronics, enabling manufacturers to identify and address potential hotspots that contribute to their overall environmental footprint. The material analysis component of this project will delve into the specific materials used in power electronics, scrutinizing their environmental attributes and potential hazards. This detailed examination will aid manufacturers in making informed decisions regarding material selection, prioritizing the use of environmentally friendly alternatives whenever possible. The research will look into techniques allowing to optimise LCAs for power electronics in terms of efficiency, speed and accuracy.