Electrochemical lithium recycling from spent batteries with electricity generation

Abstract

Lithium (Li) plays a crucial role in Li-ion batteries (LIBs), an important technology supporting the global transition to a low-carbon society. Recycling Li from spent LIBs can maximize the Li resource utilization efficiency, promote the circularity of the Li cycle and improve the sustainability of LIBs. However, conventional methods generally require substantial chemicals and energy inputs. Here we show an electrochemical method enabling simultaneous Li recycling from spent LIBs and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) capture from waste gas, producing electricity and high-purity (>99%) lithium nitrate (LiNO3). This method is waste-free and requires no massive chemical consumptions or energy inputs, while achieving high lithium recovery efficiencies of up to 97% and realizing considerable energy output of 66 Wh per kilogram of treated electrode. The potential controlled NO2 reduction reaction enables selective NO2 capture from industrial waste gas. Our work makes Li recycling more environmentally friendly and economically feasible, paving the way to a more sustainable Li cycle that would contribute to realize the circular economy. Recycling lithium (Li) from spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) can promote the circularity of Li resources, but often requires substantial chemical and energy inputs. This study shows an electrochemical method enabling Li recycling from spent LIBs with electricity generation and minimized chemical input.