Recycling of metals from spent Li-ion batteries

The purpose of the present project is to generate fundamental knowledge for resource efficient thermal recycling methods for today’s and tomorrow’s lithium ion batteries. Recycling of spent lithium ion batteries can be done through physical separation methods, leaching or thermal treatment. The research concerning recycling through thermal processes has hitherto mainly been focused on melting and recycling of certain strategic elements such as cobalt, due to its high economic value. The result of this is that a complete separation and extraction of metals in the batteries is not achieved. Within the project fundamental knowledge will enable larger scale trials to demonstrate the recycling potential. Especially aluminum, copper and lithium will be studied, but recycling of metals such as cobalt and nickel will also be evaluated.

Partner organizations

• Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) (Academic, Sweden)
• Luleå University of Technology (Academic, Sweden)
• Stena Recycling AB (Private, Sweden)