Background

The recovery of critical materials from Li-ion batteries will allow a comprehensive and full recovery of value from mobile electronic devices and other battery powered systems including electric vehicles. Current industrial hydrometallurgical/pyrometallurgical battery recycling processes focus on the recovery of the most valuable metal (cobalt) and fail to recover lithium. This technology fits within the framework of a hydrometallurgical to effectively concentrate and purify Li from leachate solutions.

Technology Overview

INL researchers are developing a process with low chemical consumption that allows an economic recovery of lithium along with the other value metals present in the batteries. This process includes an electrochemical separation step based on the use of a selective Li cation exchange membrane and a re-generable carbon source for the production of high purity lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃). After dissolution of metals from the cathode of Li-ion batteries, the metal-bearing solution is transferred to the anode side of an electrochemical reactor separated with a monovalent cation exchange membrane. Lithium ions are transported across the membrane where they react with bicarbonate ions to form a pure lithium carbonate product.

Benefits

Process enables economic recovery of Li along with the other valuable metals present in batteries.
End product is pure lithium carbonate.
Low operational costs – Carbon Dioxide is only chemical consumed.

Applications

Lithium-Ion battery recyclers and producers
Enables isolation, purification, and recovery of:
- Magnesium, lanthanides, and other valuable metals with low solubility carbonates and bicarbonates.

Opportunity

Idaho National Laboratory (INL), managed and operated by Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC (BEA), is offering the opportunity to enter into a license and/or collaborative research agreement to commercialize this new Electrochemical Separation System. This technology transfer opportunity is part of a dedicated effort to convert government-funded research into job opportunities, businesses and ultimately an improved way of life for the American people.

Electrochemical Separation and Recovery of Li from Li-ion Batteries and Brines

Patents

IP Status