Research

Research Activities

The BASTILLE project undertakes a variety of research activities aimed at advancing Ireland's circular economy, particularly focusing on battery materials like graphite. These activities are designed to generate valuable insights, develop innovative solutions, and provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders.

 

Current State-of-the-Art Analysis

  • Objective: To examine the current state of circular economy practices in Ireland and globally, particularly in relation to battery materials.
  • Activities: Conduct a comprehensive literature review and analyse existing data on circular economy models, focusing on the production, use, and recycling of graphite and other critical materials.
  • Outcome: A detailed report outlining the current state-of-the-art, identifying best practices, and highlighting areas for improvement.

 

Identification of Barriers and Enablers

  • Objective: To identify the technological, regulatory, societal, and supply chain factors that influence the circular economy.
  • Activities: Perform a series of surveys, interviews, and workshops with key stakeholders to gather insights on the barriers and enablers of circular economy practices.
  • Outcome: A comprehensive analysis of the identified barriers and enablers, providing a basis for developing targeted strategies to overcome obstacles and leverage opportunities.

 

Development of an Implementation Roadmap

  • Objective: To create, validate, and finalise a roadmap for implementing circular economy principles in Ireland.
  • Activities: Collaborate with stakeholders to develop a detailed roadmap, including specific actions, timelines, and responsibilities. Validate the roadmap through consultations and pilot projects.
  • Outcome: A practical and actionable implementation roadmap that guides the transition to a circular economy in Ireland, with a particular focus on battery materials.

 

Policy White Paper

  • Objective: To produce a policy white paper with guidelines based on case studies to support the adoption of circular economy practices.
  • Activities: Conduct case studies on successful circular economy initiatives, both in Ireland and internationally, and develop policy recommendations based on these case studies.
  • Outcome: A policy white paper providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, aimed at facilitating the transition to a circular economy.

 

Innovative Processing Technologies

  • Objective: To explore and promote innovative processing technologies for graphite production that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
  • Activities: Evaluate alternative processing methods to the traditional use of harmful chemicals, focusing on local and less environmentally damaging technologies.
  • Outcome: Development and validation of new processing technologies that enhance the sustainability of graphite production.

 

Sustainability Focus

  • Objective: To promote sustainable practices in the production and recycling of battery materials, reducing dependency on imported graphite.
  • Activities: Research and develop local production capacities, and implement sustainable practices in the production and recycling processes.
  • Outcome: Increased local production of graphite, enhanced renewable energy capacity, and the promotion of sustainable practices across the industry.