Recovery of lithium from spent LFP and NCA batteries by electro-oxidation process and synthesis of cathode material from recycled precursors

Abstract

The rising demand for lithium across various applications underscores the urgent need for sustainable recycling practices. This study highlights the critical importance of recycling lithium-ion batteries, given the finite nature of lithium resources and the environmental impact of improper disposal. The research presents an efficient method for lithium recovery from spent batteries, including LiFePO₄ (LFP) and LiNi_xCo_yAl_zO₂ (NCA) types. This approach utilizes selective lithium recovery via electro-oxidation, applying varying potentials to enhance lithium extraction from spent Li-ion batteries. This technique overcomes the limitations of traditional methods, achieving higher yields and minimizing losses.

Lithium recovery efficiency is assessed through inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis of the resulting solution. The recycled lithium precursors are then employed to synthesize new LiCoO2 (LCO) cathodes. Electrochemical evaluations show that the newly synthesized LCO exhibits a capacity of 136 mAh/g at a charge rate of 0.1C and a Coulombic efficiency of 99 %. These results confirm the effectiveness of the electro-oxidation process in recovering lithium as Li₂CO₃, facilitating the successful development of high-performance LCO cathode materials.

This study emphasizes the significance of sustainable battery recycling, offering a viable solution to the challenges of mineral scarcity, particularly lithium. It demonstrates a method that provides selectivity for different battery chemistries and compositions, advancing the field of recycling technologies.