Pyrometallurgically regenerated LiMn2O4 cathode scrap material and its electrochemical properties

Recycling cathode materials from lithium-ion battery scraps can play a significant role in reducing environmental contamination and resource depletion. In this study, we employed pyrometallurgical techniques to regenerate LiMn2O4 cathode materials from recovered cathode scraps. First, the binder was removed under optimal conditions by a heating and stirring method to maximize the dissolution rate of the cathode scrap materials. Next, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy was used to define the Li and Mn contents, and finally, the LiMn2O4 cathode material was regenerated by a pyrometallurgical method. After calcination under the optimum conditions of 500 degrees C for 12 h, electrochemical performance testing revealed obvious charge and dis charge platforms in the charge/discharge curves; further, a high first-cycle discharge capacity was observed at 136.6 mAh.g(-1) (3.0-4.3 V and 0.1 C), which decreased to 93 mAh.g(-1) after 50 cycles. This process is low-cost and environmentally friendly, with the potential for recovering other cathode scrap materials.

Automated summary

The study used pyrometallurgical techniques to regenerate LiMn2O4 cathode materials from recovered cathode scraps, resulting in materials with good electrochemical performance after calcination. This low-cost and environmentally friendly process has the potential to recover other cathode scrap materials, providing a new pathway for recycling of old battery materials.