One-step green hydrometallurgical recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries' cathode

The transition towards a low-carbon future hinges on the advancement of Lithium-ion battery (LIBs) technology, which has spurred a significant demand for raw materials and the management of waste batteries containing hazardous substances. Developing efficient and environmentally friendly recycling strategies is essential to tackle these challenges. Here, we introduce a one-step green hydrometallurgical recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries' cathode on the basis of contact-electro-catalytic (CEC) process. It combines the separation of the cathode materials in pretreatment, and leaching in a single step. Specifically, electrode pieces are directly dealt with the CEC treatment, which can remove organic binders (e.g. Polyvinylidene Fluoride) and reduce high-valence metal ions. Results indicate that the leaching efficiency of lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese can reach 99.6 %, 98.3 %, 99.4 %,97.4 %. Plus, SiO₂ is a cost-effective and readily available catalyst requiring no modification. Therefore, the CEC-assisted one-step hydrometallurgical recycling exhibits sustainability, rapidness, high efficiency, and eco-friendly for LIBs recycling.