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Electrochemical

Electrochemical recycling for batteries is a relatively novel method that uses electrochemical processes to reclaim valuable materials from spent batteries. It involves discharging processes to deplete residual charge and then using electrolysis to selectively recover specific metals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel.

• Pros: Electrochemical recycling is energy-efficient, environmentally friendly due to less chemical use, and allows for selective recovery of valuable metals like lithium and cobalt.
• Cons: This method involves complex technical setups, potentially high costs, and scalability challenges which may limit its widespread adoption for mass battery recycling.

Startup Example: Neu Battery Material

Neu Material is innovating in the field of battery recycling, focusing on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) batteries. Their patented technology provides a sustainable end-of-life solution, promoting a closed-loop recovery system that supports battery manufacturers, eMobility, and electronic waste recyclers by recovering battery-grade metals directly from production scrap and used batteries. Their processes meet emerging environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements and offer scalability validated by their Singapore facility.

Product The main product is a patented, scalable electrochemical module designed for the recovery of critical metals from LFP batteries. This technology supports efficient recycling and is adaptable to various demands, providing a significant edge in battery-grade metal recovery.

Battery Recycling Technique Neu Material utilizes an advanced electrochemical process to extract critical metals from end-of-life LFP batteries. This method is not only environmentally friendly but also aligns with strict ESG standards by minimizing waste and bypassing the need for traditional, more pollutive recycling methods.

Use Cases

1. Battery Manufacturers: Helps recover metals from production scrap, reintegrating them into the manufacturing process, thus reducing waste and costs.
2. eMobility and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) Firms: Offers a reliable recycling solution that scales with demand, ensuring sustainability in the lifecycle of LFP batteries used in electric vehicles and storage systems.
3. eWaste Recyclers: Accepts a variety of lithium batteries and black mass, with a robust logistics network that aids in transporting materials to recycling facilities.

Figure 11: Redox targeting Electrochemical extraction

Direct Lithium Extraction

This method involves a membrane technology for direct lithium extraction (DLE) from brine resources, which is not traditional battery recycling but rather an innovative approach to enhancing the lithium supply chain necessary for battery production.

• Pros: It is highly efficient, capable of extracting lithium from brine resources with high selectivity and speed, significantly reducing the environmental footprint compared to traditional evaporation ponds.
• Cons: The technology is relatively new and may face unforeseen operational issues. Additionally, the initial setup and technology deployment costs can be high.