1- Context and objectives
The thesis is set against the context of the explosion of the development of electric vehicles, which has led to a sharp rise in demand for lithium (Li), an essential non-renewable resource for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). By 2040, this demand could exceed current production. As a result, the European Union is imposing strict regulations to recycle these batteries and recover precious metals. Current recycling technologies, such as pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy, have limitations in terms of Li recovery and environmental impact. Membrane processes are emerging as a promising alternative for more efficient and sustainable metal separation.
The thesis, funded by the Institut Carnot Chimie-Balard CIRIMAT, will be carried out in 2 laboratories of the University of Montpellier (located on the same campus), the Institut Européen des Membranes and the Institut Charles Gerhardt. The aim of the thesis project is to develop an innovative complexation-assisted membrane filtration process using polymers for selectively recovering lithium from used batteries. The main objectives are to selectively separate Li from the other metals present in the leachate, to reduce the environmental and energy impact by using biosourced molecules and finally to recycle the complexing material.
2- Program
The project is structured around four main tasks:
- Literature review
- Polymer synthesis and characterization: Development of complexing and pH-sensitive polymers, optimization of their complexation and filtration properties.
- Process design and optimization: Setting up a laboratory pilot to test and optimize the membrane filtration process on a synthetic LIB leachate.
- Validation on a real LIB leachate: Application of the optimized process on a real leachate to validate the operating conditions and assess membrane fouling (in partnership with a battery recycling company).
3- Required skills
The candidate, currently in Master or final year of engineering school, must have knowledge and skills in Chemistry (particularly organic and/or macromolecular chemistry) and Chemical Engineering. Autonomous, rigorous and fond of experimental sciences, he (or she) should also have good writing skills (French and English) and interpersonal skills.
4- Application
Duration and remuneration: The doctoral contract will be for 3 years (01/10/2025 to 30/09/2028) and will be remunerated according to the Carnot Institute salary scale (i.e. a gross monthly salary about 2600 euros).
Funding: Carnot doctoral contract, secured funding
Administrative residence: The doctoral student recruited will be enrolled in a doctoral thesis at the University of Montpellier. The experiments will be carried out in Montpellier.
Doctoral School: ED GAIA (Montpellier)
Please send, before 15th june, your CV and covering letter + 2 references to:
FAUR Catherine (catherine.faur@umontpellier. fr, 04-67-14-46-53) – supervision (Institut Européen des Membranes)
MERICQ Jean-Pierre (jean-pierre.mericq@umontpellier.fr) – framework (Institut Européen des Membranes)
MONGE Sophie (sophie.monge-darcos@umontpellier.fr) – co-supervision (Institut Charles Gerhardt Montpellier)