Japanese scientists have created a method to recover up to 90% lithium from used EV batteries. This process significantly enhances recycling efficiency and could reduce Japan's reliance on lithium imports, stabilizing supply chains.
Japanese researchers have developed a new method for extracting lithium from used electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This technique achieves recovery rates of up to 90%, a significant improvement over traditional recycling methods that typically recover less than 50%.
The new method involves a chemical substitution; instead of sodium hydroxide, recovered lithium hydroxide is used during recycling. This change enhances the conversion of 'black mass' battery waste into high-purity lithium, making it suitable for reuse in new batteries.
In addition to increased recovery rates, the new technique is environmentally friendly. It reportedly reduces carbon emissions by around 40% relative to conventional battery recycling methods, contributing to more sustainable practices in the industry.
This development is critical given that demand for lithium is surging while domestic supplies are limited. By improving local recovery methods, Japan can decrease its dependence on imported lithium, which is particularly valuable given current geopolitical concerns surrounding mineral supply chains.
Despite this advancement, only approximately 14% of used lithium-ion batteries in Japan are currently recycled. Addressing the gaps in collection and processing infrastructure will be essential for maximizing the impact of this breakthrough.
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Japanese scientists have created a method to recover up to 90% lithium from used EV batteries. This process significantly enhances recycling efficiency and could reduce Japan's reliance on lithium imports, stabilizing supply chains.