Cathode Active Material Recycling from Spent Lithium Batteries: A Green (Circular) Approach Based on Deep Eutectic...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Green Chemistry
• Sustainable Engineering

Background:

• The growing demand for metals in the battery industry necessitates efficient recycling solutions.
• Current recycling methods often involve harsh conditions and generate waste, hindering circular economy goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, green, and efficient method for recovering valuable metals from spent battery cathode materials.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for this purpose.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of choline chloride and lactic acid.
• Applied the DES to leach metals (Li, Mn, Co, Ni) from cathode active materials like LiMn2O4, LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, and LiNi0.8Co0.2O2.
• Developed a two-step approach for selective metal recovery from LiNi0.8Co0.2O2.

Main Results:

• Achieved 100% leaching efficiency for Li, Mn, Co, and Ni under mild conditions.
• Demonstrated high yield and purity in selective recovery of Li, Co, and Ni from LiNi0.8Co0.2O2.
• Confirmed that aluminum current collectors and binders were not dissolved, simplifying separation.

Conclusions:

• The developed DES-based method offers a sustainable and efficient route for recovering critical metals from battery waste.
• The process is highly effective, operates under mild conditions, and allows for solvent regeneration and reuse, enhancing sustainability.