Enabling a Circular Fluorine Economy for Energy Applications: From Waste to Product

Energy storage and conversion technologies ranging from batteries to electrolyzers to solar cells are reliant on fluoropolymer membranes, coatings, binders etc. Fluorinated compounds provide unusual thermal and chemical stability that is required for the harsh chemical environments within these energy-related devices. Fluorine is currently designated as a critical element by the Department of Energy. Current processes for all fluorinated compounds start with fluorspar (CaF2) conversion to HF and then the desired product. Unfortunately, CaF2 is predominantly mined abroad and HF production is hazardous and energy-intensive. In contrast, fluoropolymers are rarely recycled and often landfilled. Here, we propose to develop an electrochemical process targeted at degrading fluoropolymers to serve as the source of inorganic fluoride for energy-related applications. By converting waste fluoropolymers into inorganic fluorides, we can upend the dependence on fluorspar and create value from fluorochemical waste, enabling a circular fluorine economy.

“Energy storage and conversion technologies such as batteries and electrolyzers are important in the drive for decarbonization and sustainable growth. A common thread that is present in all these devices is the use of fluorinated compounds. However, fluorine is currently listed by the US Department of Energy (DOE) as a critical element because of challenges with sourcing and manufacturing. We propose to reimagine the fluorochemical industry from a currently linear process to a circular process. Our process will be transformative as we will develop an electro(chemical) process to upcycle fluorinated waste compounds into inorganic fluorides that can then serve as the fluoride source for new chemical manufacturing.”

Chibueze Amanchukwu, Neubauer Family Assistant Professor, Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering