Liquid-phase suspension stabilization and exfoliation of end-of-life batteries high-quality graphite with a natural surfactant

Abstract

Sustainable recycling of end-of-life batteries is critical in addressing both environmental concerns and resource scarcity. This study presents the liquid-phase exfoliation of high-quality graphite derived from spent batteries, employing a natural anionic surfactant to achieve stable suspensions in an organic solvent. Moreover, metal impurities of the spent anode material were removed via extraction with water. The use of acid treatment was avoided. The exfoliation process involves ultrasonication in the presence of the surfactant, which facilitates partial delamination of the graphite material while preserving structural integrity of the spent graphite while maintaining structural integrity. The resulting graphite suspensions demonstrate excellent stability, attributed to the effective surfactant adsorption on the graphite surfaces, preventing re-stacking and aggregation. Characterization techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electron microscopy, confirm the high quality and few-layer nature of the exfoliated graphite. Additionally, the environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness of using the surfactant are highlighted. This approach not only facilitates the reuse of valuable materials from waste batteries but also aligns with green chemistry principles, offering a promising route for sustainable material recovery and the production of high-performance graphite for various applications.