X-ray computed tomography (CT) has the capacity to reveal the internal details of objects in three-dimensions, non-destructively. Since the 1980s, X-ray CT has been accepted as a well-established tool for a wide range of scientific and engineering research endeavours. The sample is rotated about an axis perpendicular to the incident X-ray beam during CT acquisition....

All-solid-state batteries utilising a Li-metal anode have long promised to be the next-generation of high-performance energy storage device, with a step-change in energy density, cycling stability and cell safety touted as potential advantages compared to conventional Li-ion battery cells. A key to enabling this technology is the development of solid-state electrolytes with the elusive combination...

This study presents a novel room-temperature, two-step process for separating catalyst-coated membranes (CCMs) used in fuel cells and water electrolysers. The method not only achieves a clean separation of the central membrane from the catalyst materials but also preserves the catalyst, thereby avoiding any potential hazardous gas release. The process involves a brief one-minute soak...

The shift towards renewable energy sources combined with other factors, such as population increase, digitalisation, and a need to decrease carbon footprint, leads to increasing metal consumption. To meet this growing demand and avoid accumulation of waste in landfills, efficient recycling methods are needed. Current pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical methods achieve complete digestion of end-of-life materials...

Long-loop recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries is neither sustainable nor economical at scale. In the absence of design-to-recycle initiatives taken up by cell manufacturers, even for batteries produced today, all-in-one shredding processes are the only practical option to achieve circularity of critical materials. Shredding lithium-ion batteries ultimately produces ‘black mass’ – a low-value commodity comprising...

Electric vehicles are increasingly being adopted in Great Britain and other parts of the world, driven by the perception that they offer a cost-effective alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles while reducing emissions. However, a key element that underpins this perception is the longevity of electric vehicles, which remains relatively under researched. Here we show...