New Electrochemical Method Recovers Lithium from Old Batteries

A new study shows that lithium which is used in rechargeable batteries, can be recovered from old batteries by using new electrochemical method. This is important because lithium supplies are limited and the demand for batteries is rising globally.

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign developed a new way to take out lithium from old batteries. Firstly, break down the used batteries and dissolve the metals into a liquid. This liquid contains lithium along with other metals. Afterwards, put the liquid into a device that uses electricity. Inside the device there is special electrode coated with a polymer. This polymer-coated electrode acts like a sponge, grabbing only lithium while ignoring other metals.

The team says that when old batteries are broken down for recycling, lithium comes out with other metals as well. This is challenging here because it makes hard to separate lithium with other metals. Lead researcher Xiao Su explained that “The main challenge is the presence of other metals in lithium recovery streams… To overcome these challenges, we’ve introduced a copolymer that captures lithium selectively directly from organic solvents and can be electrochemically regenerated.” This means the polymer can be reused repeatedly to capture more lithium, making the process more efficient.

Once the electrode collects enough lithium, it is moved into a new liquid. Then small amount of electricity is applied to it. This causes the electrode to let go of the lithium it was holding. The released lithium can be then collected in purest form. Since the electrode releases the lithium and can be reused, the process becomes easier, creates less waste and most importantly better for the environment.

The study found that by using this new recycling method to recover lithium from old batteries may cost the same or even less than getting lithium by mining if from the ground. This method is not only environment friendly by could also save money. Instead of digging up more lithium through dangerous mining, recycling could be better and cheaper way to get lithium for batteries.

Researchers say this technology could help build a more circular and secure lithium supply chain. By reducing dependence on mining, it could lower environmentally damage, improve supply security, and make battery recycling more attractive for commercial use.