Redox Targeting Method for Recycling of Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries Material

Technology Overview

With the retirement of massive amount of end-of-life lithium ion batteries (LIBs), proper disposal of the hazardous wastes and cost-effective valorization of useful materials have become increasingly pressing and attracted extensive attention worldwide. The state-of-the-art recycling technologies, which are generally based on chemical leaching methods, have critical issues of enormous chemicals consumption, secondary pollution and tedious procedures.The technology relates to an innovative redox targeting-based process for the recycling of spent lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. With 0.20M of ferrocyanide [Fe(CN)6]3- solution as a selective and regenerative redox mediator, LiFePO4 is readily broken down into FePO4 and Li+ via the redox-targeting reaction. An Li-removal efficiency of 99.8% has been achieved with 50 minutes reaction at ambient conditions. The reacted redox species [Fe(CN)6]4- are instantaneously regenerated on the electrode for subsequent round of reaction while Li+ ion is separated from the counter electrode compartment as lithium hydroxide (LiOH). The technology provider is currently seeking industry partner to scale-up and commercialise the technology.

Technology Features & Specifications

This technology comprises of self-build equipment, a proprietary leaching solution and operation method. The equipment consists of an electrolyzer, tank, Nafion 117 ion exchange membrane, pumps and tube. The leaching solution is synthesised from Prussian Blue and LiOH. During operation, spent LiFePO4 battery material was loaded in anodic tank and the leaching solution was pumped through the anodic tank and electrolyzer. Pure water and air were use as cathode. Eventually, LiOH will accumulate in cathodic tank and the FePO4 can be collected from the anodic tank.  High purity LiOH (99.90%) and FePO4 (99.97%) can be obtained. 120 kWh is required to process 1 ton of LFP battery materials.

Potential Applications

The technology can be employed in Lithium battery material recycling industry Lithium battery manufacturing industry. Battery recycling startup companies. 

Benefits

This technology can Eliminate secondary pollution and reduce chemical consumption of battery recycling company. Improve product quality e.g. produces battery grade material.