Leaching of Lithium-ion battery waste at room temperature using controlled reductant addition

Abstract

The hydrometallurgical recycling of lithium-ion batteries is a critical area of research, particularly as the demand for these batteries continues to grow. The current work involves using 2 M H₂SO₄ to leach lithium mixed metal oxides from battery waste, with hydrogen peroxide serving as a reductant. This approach is notable for its operation at room temperature and constant solid loading of 10 %, which contrasts with other methods that require higher temperatures and lower solids. The controlled addition of the reductant is a key innovation, aiming to reduce the inefficiency caused by rapid dissolution and side reactions that are common with traditional reductants. Recovery rates of 96 % for cobalt and nearly 100 % for manganese, nickel, copper, and lithium are reported with the process after 24 h under laboratory stirring and without any external energy input.