STUDY OF EXTRACTION OF LITHIUM FROM SPENT LI-ION BATTERIES USING PYRO-HYDROMETALLURGICAL PROCESS

Abstract

The selective recovery of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has become essential due to the rising need for lithium resources. This study introduces waste pine needle powder (PNP) as a novel biomass precursor for the preferential lithium extraction process. The thermal reduction mechanism of spent cathode powder (SCP) using PNP is thoroughly examined, focusing on the impact of PNP on carbonization on lithium extraction efficiency. By optimizing roasting parameters using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) on Design expert software, SCP was successfully reduced to Li₂CO₃, Ni, Co, and MnO under conditions of 642.141 °C for 43.9 minutes with a 0.836 mass ratio of PNP to SCP, the process achieved 90% leaching efficiency of lithium. Additionally, a comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) using the LCA for Experts tool was conducted to analyse the environmental impacts. The results highlight the effectiveness and sustainability of using PNP as a reducing agent, offering a promising approach for lithium recovery from spent LIBs.