In this second post, we learn from Erin, Connor, Sadiq, Ade and Don, the STEP Lab master’s team on Life Cycle Analysis theme, as they graduate with MEng degrees in Aeronautical and Mechanical engineering between them.
What is LOBSTER
The aim of our project was to estimate the CO2 impact of second life, and end of life (EOL) processes of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, considering the batteries destinations i.e. recycling, energy storage etc., state of health, and battery types/compositions. To do this, we used data from literature and Ecochain Mobius. Results were summarized as a new piece of software written by the STEP Lab team, offering Logical Outputs Based on Statistics and Testing for End-of-life Re-purposing (L.O.B.S.T.E.R).
The software created makes recommendations on the destinations of the batteries, based on a database of battery information, and logic-based rules. In addition, the software contains clear explanations of why the decisions were made, and flow charts of the recycling processes. This software is expected to make a meaningful impact, as it will allow users to more easily take the CO2 impact of battery destinations in to account, without needing to spend a significant amount of time undertaking research, thus streamlining the decision-making process.
Don’s Experience
I joined the STEP lab at the start of my 4th and final year of integrated Master of Aeronautical Engineering to join four of my fellow cohorts for our major team project and penultimately, producing a thesis. Having a dedicated workspace for our multidisciplinary team with a client orientated project gave a taste of how a real-world business could operate. The environment included sharing the lab with other project groups at various stages of their respective degrees, offering opportunities to develop our working practices amongst a diverse workplace environment. Skills that will without a doubt be useful but also desirable for any future employer. It was a real sense of achievement from our team knowing that our work will be continued by those who follow. We were lucky enough to work alongside a PhD student who guided our work to answer questions arising from their research and to pass on the work means that answers to real world problems become more accurate and we can really make a difference in the real world.
Erin’s Experience
As a 4th year Meng Aeronautical engineering student, this STEP lab project gave me a chance to explore an engineering discipline outside of what would typically be taught in my degree, which is relevant to my future career, and greatly increases my employability. Engaging with STEP lab projects has allowed me to work alongside fellow students in a professional setting, tackling a project with potential real-world industry implications. This hands-on experience has been invaluable, especially considering my aspiration to pursue a career in research.
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