Energy storage devices: performance and safety assessments in LiFePO4 batteries and development of sustainable materials for supercapacitors

The increasing deployment of energy storage systems across various sectors highlights the need for development of durable performances and sustainable electrode design to support the transition toward environmentally responsible energy solutions. This work addresses two aspects of energy storage: i) the analysis of commercial graphite/LiFePO4 battery degradation under realistic cycling conditions and ii) the development of biomass-derived carbon materials for supercapacitor electrodes. Regarding the first aspect, this work investigates the aging behavior of commercial graphite/LiFePO4 batteries under realistic cycling conditions, with the aim of understanding their degradation mechanisms and exploring potential secondary applications once their primary function becomes unfeasible. Regarding the second aspect, this work focuses on synthesizing activated carbons from hazelnut shell waste biomass through different thermal treatments, followed by further improvement of the electrochemical performances through the addition of CuO. Our findings confirm the potential of these chars as sustainable supercapacitors electrodes, contributing to biomass valorization and supporting circular economy principles.