Researchers have created a method of recycling nearly 50% of the lithium in the millions of batteries that are discarded every year. Research published in the International Journal of Energy Technology and Policy describes a new way to extract the lithium and the cobalt that make up the bulk of the metal components of these batteries. The new technique is based on an old idea from the late 19th century, when scientists discovered how to extract hydrogen gas by combining oxygen and carbon dioxide. The pair baked the batteries at a high temperature before treating them with strong acids such as hydrogen peroxide. The extracted materials can be reused in new batteries, with the remaining liquid waste being treated for safe disposal.
Researchers have created a method of recycling nearly 50% of the lithium in the millions of batteries that are discarded every year. The new technique is based on an old idea from the late 19th century, when scientists discovered how to extract hydrogen gas by combining oxygen and carbon dioxide. The pair baked the batteries at a high temperature before treating them with strong acids such as hydrogen peroxide. The extracted materials can be reused in new batteries, with the remaining liquid waste being treated for safe disposal.