Amrita Sarkar

Title: Amrita Sarkar: Innovator in Battery Recycling Technologies

Introduction

Amrita Sarkar is a prominent inventor based in New York, NY (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of battery recycling, particularly in the recovery and reuse of polymeric binders from composite cathode films. Her innovative work aims to address the growing issue of electronic waste and promote sustainable practices in battery manufacturing.

Latest Patents

Amrita Sarkar holds a patent titled "Methods for recovering and reusing polymeric binders from composite cathode films." This patent focuses on the recovery and recycling of materials such as poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and lithium cobalt (III) oxide (LCO) from cathode films isolated from end-of-life batteries, including lithium-ion batteries. The process involves immersing cathode films in a solution containing N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidine (NMP), or a mixture of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and NMP or DMF. This solution effectively dissolves PVDF, allowing for its separation from LCO and the conductive substrate component of the cathode films through alumina column separation. The recovered PVDF and LCO are of suitable quality for use in new cathode films, enabling economically feasible solvent-based recycling of battery cathodes. This innovation not only prolongs the service life of cathode materials but also reduces polymeric waste.

Career Highlights

Amrita Sarkar is affiliated with Columbia University, where she continues her research and development in battery technologies. Her work has garnered attention for its potential impact on sustainability and waste reduction in the electronics industry.

Collaborations

Amrita collaborates with notable colleagues, including Lauren Elizabeth Marbella and Richard E. May, who contribute to her research efforts and enhance the scope of her projects.

Conclusion

Amrita Sarkar's innovative approach to battery recycling exemplifies the importance of sustainable practices in technology. Her contributions are paving the way for a greener future in battery manufacturing and waste management.