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 using s-LIBs. In this study, a 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) (M_w = 57 000–110 000 g mol⁻¹) were obtained. By introducing thermally stable and flexible ISB units, the thermal stability of copolycarbonates was enhanced, and the flexibility of polymer chains was improved. This study showcased the potential for developing environment-friendly soft polycarbonates that can overcome the inherent brittleness of BPA polycarbonates.