LITHIUM RECOVERY FROM LIQUID SOURCES USING A SPENT LI-ION BATTERY (SLIB) MATERIALS-BASED MEMBRANE CAPACITIVE DEIONIZATION (MCDI)

Abstract

The increasing demand for lithium (Li) as a crucial raw material in various industries requires efficient recovery methods and a circular economy approach. This study investigates a fast, environmentally friendly technique for selective Li recovery, with a particular focus on the utilization of innovative materials derived from spent Li- ion batteries (SLiBs), notably λ-MnO2/-AlO2-based fabricated materials, to enhance Li's circular economy. Conventional Li recovery methods involve extended timeframes, chemical additives, and environmental concerns. As an alternative, electrochemical systems, such as membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI), offer promising prospects due to their high removal capacities, regeneration potential, and scalability. However, no commercially available electrochemical Li recovery system exists, driving ongoing research efforts to improve performance. This research project employs MCDI for selective Li recovery, examining various electrode materials, including commercial activated carbon electrodes, fabricated λ-MnO2-based electrodes, and modified λ-MnO2/λ-AlO2-based electrodes. The studied mixed λ-MnO2/λ-AlO2 cathode exhibited high selectivity for Li extraction, achieving an excellent recovery efficiency of 83.13%. An ultrahigh deionization capacity of 38.15 mg/g was attained at 1.0 V with an initial salinity of 5 mM LiCl. The Li adsorption amount reached 900 µmol/g, with a separation factor Li+ aMg2+ of 3.77 (CMg2+/CL₁ = 1). This study lays the foundation for developing a comprehensive Li recovery framework. Capable of fulfilling the growing demand for Li while minimizing environmental impact.