Fraunhofer Electrochemical Process Recovers Valuable Battery Raw Materials

The Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Advanced Materials IFAM in Bremen is developing an electrochemical process for the recovery of valuable raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel from battery recycling. This new technology could also enable the extraction of rare earth elements from electronic waste in the future, thereby reducing dependency on imports.

Compared to current pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical recycling methods, which are energy-intensive and generate significant CO2 emissions, the Fraunhofer process operates without acids or bases and requires less energy. The method utilizes specially manufactured electrodes that efficiently separate and bind valuable metals from process water, yielding high-purity extracted substances.

Researchers anticipate that the process can be scaled up for industrial application. A system comprising multiple reactors could allow for the recycling of various critical raw materials within a single plant. This would enhance material recovery and substantially decrease Europe's dependence on critical raw materials, many of which are currently imported.

Fraunhofer IFAM has already tested the technology in a laboratory setting and is currently constructing a large-scale pilot plant. The objective is for the process to also be applicable to the recycling of rare earth elements from electronic waste, an area where Europe has historically been entirely reliant on imports. Additionally, the method is being explored for seawater desalination and the treatment of hospital wastewater.