A Study on the Recovery of Lithium Hydroxide through the Recycling of Waste Secondary Batteries by an Eco-Friendly Pyrometallurgical Process with Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis

Abstract

The surge in electric vehicles and E-mobility markets is boosting secondary batteries, particularly lithium secondary batteries known for exceptional performance. With global demand rising due to electric vehicles taking center stage for carbon neutrality, the focus on environmental impact and CO₂ emissions from fossil resource use intensifies. The growing quantity of end-of-life electric vehicle batteries poses a global recycling challenge. This study explores a Pyrometallurgical Process for lithium hydroxide recovery from Waste lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) black powder. Optimized thermal treatment removes impurities, and Self-propagating High-temperature Synthesis (SHS) using Mg as a reducing agent effectively isolates lithium as lithium oxide (Li₂O). Thermodynamic calculations with HSC Chemistry software reveal the mechanism behind lithium oxide recovery. Recovered lithium oxide undergoes optimized water treatment for enhanced lithium hydroxide recovery efficiency. The properties of the recovered lithium hydroxide are assessed through various analyses, including XRD and ICP.