Influence of different discharge levels on the mechanical recycling efficiency of lithium-ion batteries

Prior to the mechanical processing, discharging is necessary to prevent hazards. While the discharging process, different phenomena can occur changing the characteristics of the functional units of LIB. This study reveals the influence on the mechanical recycling and the obtained material when different discharge levels are used for various cells differing in their cell chemistry. It shows that for different cells, for example, copper deposits happen on the cathode as well as active material deposits on the separator foil. These new properties deteriorate the black mass quality and show contamination of the products with other material streams. It is being tested whether established sub-processes are suitable. However, it becomes clear that further recycling steps (e.g. flotation, hydrometallurgy) can be influenced as well as their product quality and element specific yield.

Automated summary

Prior to mechanical processing, discharging is necessary to prevent hazards. Different discharge levels can impact the mechanical recycling and resulting material, leading to copper and active material deposits, deteriorating the quality of the black mass and contaminating the products.