Downstream separations of LIB metals in EC-bioleachate by ion exchange

flow diagram shows Figure 1 – Cartoon representing IX resin separation of LIB metals following bioleaching in an electrochemical cell. — Figure 1 – Cartoon representing IX resin separation of LIB metals following bioleaching in an electrochemical cell.

CMI researchers from Idaho National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight.

Innovation
Developed and demonstrated ion exchange protocols for separation of metals from a leachate of lithium-ion battery (LIB) black mass prepared using organic acid biolixiviant in electrochemical cell (EC).

Achievement
The EC-bioleachate was passed through a sequence of three ion exchange (IX) resins to effectively remove Fe and Cu and isolate three high purity metal streams: (1) Co + Ni, (2) Mn and (3) Li.

Significance and Impact

EC-bioleaching results in lower Fe and Cu contamination compared to bioleaching alone, facilitating a relatively simple ion exchange sequence to isolate high value metal streams.
High metal yield and purity can improve economics of LIB bioleaching and increase the potential for commercialization of the process.

Hub Target Addressed
Green recovery strategy for domestic recycling of LIB metals.

table shows Table 1 – Percent yield and purity of critical minerals recovered from LIB cathode wastes by EC-Bioleach followed by IX separations. — Table 1 – Percent yield and purity of critical minerals recovered from LIB cathode wastes by EC-Bioleach followed by IX separations.