Basics of Battery Recycling

In the area "Battery Recycling"

Level: Introduction
Focus: Theory
Activity: Populated

Objectives

Objective	Minimum Expected Coverage
Understand core battery chemistries (Li-ion variants, Na-ion, solid-state) and their recycling implications.	Li-ion Variants: NMC (Ni-Mn-Co): High-value metals, but complex separation. LFP (LiFePO₄): Lower metal value, but safer to process. LCO (LiCoO₂): Cobalt-rich, prioritizes Co recovery. Na-ion Batteries: Cathodes: Prussian blue analogs or layered oxides (NaₓMO₂). Anodes: Hard carbon (no graphite recovery needed). Key Differences: Aqueous solubility of Na-salts simplifies leaching. Solid-State Batteries: Ceramic/Glass Electrolytes (e.g., LLZO, LiPON): High-temperature processing. Polymer Electrolytes: Solvent-based separation.
Apply chemistry-specific handling protocols for safe storage, discharge, and dismantling	Li-ion: Thermal runaway risk (gas venting, fires). Na-ion: Water-reactive (requires inert atmosphere handling). Solid-State: Brittle ceramics (dust hazards).
Recover critical materials (Li, Co, Ni, Mn, Na, solid electrolytes) via mechanical/hydrometallurgical processes.	Li-ion/NMC: Acid leaching (H₂SO₄/HCl) → pCAM-ready sulfates. Na-ion: Water leaching (Na-salts) → precipitation. Solid-State: LLZO: Thermal treatment to recover Li₂CO₃. Sulfide Electrolytes: Vacuum distillation for Li₂S.
Process recycled materials for reuse in pCAM, next-gen batteries, or alternative applications.	Li-ion: Black mass → Ni/Co/Mn sulfates → pCAM co-precipitation. Na-ion: Na₂CO₃ recovery → cathode resynthesis. Solid-State: Li recovery → electrolyte reformation.
Comply with evolving regulations for multi-chemistry battery waste streams.	EU Battery Regulation: Extended to Na-ion/solid-state. US EPA: Hazardous waste rules for Li/Na reactivity. ISO 14040: LCA for multi-chemistry recycling.
Evaluate emerging recycling methods for novel chemistries (e.g., solid-state electrolyte recovery).	Direct Cathode Recycling (for Li-ion/Na-ion). Electrochemical leaching (lower energy vs. pyrometallurgy). Solvent-based separation for polymer electrolytes.

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Courses

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Title	Full coverage?	Description	Link
Automotive and Industrial Lithium-ion Battery Recycling	✅ Full	This course focuses on the latest development in battery recycling legislations, health and safety, economics and the battery recycling processes that are actively being pursued at the moment. It offers a platform for individuals, groups and industry to engage in new knowledge training about battery recycling	WMG Recycling Course

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