New method uses batteries' own energy to recover 95% of key metals

Researchers have developed an innovative battery recycling method that harnesses a spent lithium-ion battery’s own stored chemical energy to recover key metals with high efficiency. By recharging the battery to a controlled level (around 70% capacity), they trigger a self-heating thermal runaway reaction that raises the internal temperature to about 1,100°C. This heat breaks down complex cathode materials, such as nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), into simpler metallic or oxide forms, facilitating easier extraction without the need for extensive external energy or harsh chemicals. The process involves a two-stage material recovery: first, washing the thermally treated powder with water to remove soluble lithium salts (recovering over 60% lithium), and second, using dilute hydrochloric acid to dissolve remaining lithium and transition metals, achieving over 93% lithium and 95% transition metal recovery in tested cells. This method contrasts with conventional recycling techniques like pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy, which require high energy input or large