Research project Investigation of PFAS and other hazardous fluorinated substances in lithium-ionbattery recycling
Fluorinated chemicals, including PFAS, are vital for lithium-ion batteries but can harm health and the environment. As Europe ramps up battery production and recycling, the FreeLIB project will identify risky fluorinated emissions, assess their impacts, and develop safer recycling practices to protect people and nature.
Fluorinated chemicals are key components in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but some (especially PFAS) pose risks to human health and the environment. As Europe rapidly expands LIB production and recycling, understanding and reducing these risks is crucial. The FreeLIB project aims to make battery recycling safer and more sustainable by identifying and managing emissions of hazardous fluorinated substances during the process. By reducing workplace exposure and environmental releases, FreeLIB will support Europe’s battery industry in staying ahead of upcoming regulations while protecting people and the planet.
Project members
Project managers
Steffen Schellenberger
Researcher

Members
Ian Cousins
Professor

Jonathan Benskin
Professor

More about this project
We will be recruiting a PhD student or Postdoc for this project sometime in Fall 2025. Contact us for more information!