Direct recycling of shorted solid-state electrolytes enabled by targeted recovery

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) present an opportunity for simultaneously offering high energy density and safety. Yet sustainable developments of SSBs have been hindered due to the dendrite-induced short-circuit of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) and the lack of recycling routes. Here we provide a targeted recovery strategy to directly recycle shorted garnet-type Li6.5La3Zr1.5Ta0.5O12 SSEs based on a detailed investigation of Li dendrites. We find that garnet grains can in-situ react with dendritic Li and its derivate by a one-step annealing at 900 degrees C, which enables a rapid recovery of shorted garnets. Moreover, electrochemical properties of garnets can be well restored even after multiple short-circuits, significantly extending their lifespans. Economic and environmental analysis shows the superiorities of targeted recovery strategy in thrifting fabrication time, energy consumptions and production costs. Such a simple yet efficient recovery strategy would advance sustainable developments of solid-state batteries.

Automated summary

This study provides a targeted recovery strategy for recycling short-circuited garnet-type solid-state batteries by investigating the reaction between garnet grains and dendritic lithium. The results show that annealing at a high temperature can rapidly recover the shorted garnets and restore their electrochemical properties, significantly extending their lifespans. Economic and environmental analysis demonstrates the advantages of this targeted recovery strategy in terms of reducing fabrication time, energy consumption, and production costs.