Dr Li Xiaodong has been a Research Scientist in Advanced Materials Technology Centre (AMTC), Singapore Polytechnic since 2011. He has more than 10 years of research experience in solar cells, PV module recycling and solid waste management. In AMTC, he leads a technical group that focuses on clean technology and materials recycling research projects. As a Principal Investigator, he supported local SMEs and MNCs in carrying out multiple R&D and industry projects, and actively involved in prototype development.
Dr Li specialises in solid waste recycling (photovoltaic (PV) modules, Li-ion battery, e-waste and incineration bottom ash); building materials development from recycled materials (silica aerogel from incineration bottom ash as thermal and acoustic insulator, sand substitute from plastic waste); functional coatings development (thermal insulation, fireproofing and waterproofing paints); and pilot scale process development (PV module recycling plant, aerogel fabrication plant).
Dr Li obtained his PhD in Materials Science and MSc in Materials Engineering from the East China Normal University in Shanghai, China.
Developed efficient and environmentally friendly methods to reclaim all precious materials from end-of-life PV modules. A new process involving mechanical, thermal and chemical treatment was designed to enable over 90% reclaim rate for recycling crystalline silicon PV from entire modules, down to their individual components, including Si wafers, silver, copper, aluminium, back sheet and glass panel, with the use of green chemicals through patented technology. The recycling process is low-cost, highly efficient and avoids the use of harmful acids. Currently involved in developing and building a pilot scale PV module recycling plant in Singapore.
Developed a chemical process to manufacture large size silica aerogel composites from incineration bottom ash. The aerogel composite is breathable, lightweight, flexible, fireproof, waterproof and has high mechanical strength. The application of the silica aerogel composite includes thermal and acoustic insulation materials for residential housing to improve human comfort and energy efficiency of buildings. It can also be used as absorbent material in wastewater treatment such as oil spillage clean up thanks to its high hydrophobicity. Involved in developing and building a pilot scale aerogel fabrication plant.
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