Project 5

Development and Optimisation processes that add value to DES processes

Project Summary

In this overall project, processes that can add to the DES projects under Project 3 are developed. These include optimising pretreatment methods for raw batteries and black mass, developing processes for reuse of DES and utilisation of DES for mixed feeds of NMC and LFP batteries, and developing processes for producing battery grade materials from pCAM and pAAM.

A/Prof Phil van Eyk

Chief Investigator
Adelaide University

Lewis Utting

Partner Investigator
Iondrive Technologies

Sub-project 5.1

Battery and Black mass Pretreatment for Hydrometallurgy process

Theme 1

This project will develop a multi-step process utilizing the physical and chemical differences between battery components to achieve better separation between all the fractions. The tecniques included for raw batteries will be: Electrolyte removal using chemical solvent dissolution, heat treatment and ultrasonic cleaning; Electrostatic feed to separate metal and non-metallic components; Eddie current, Gravity spout, pneumatic and centrifuge to separate metallic foils. For black mass (pCAM/Anode), techniques will be Sieving separation; Flotation using hydrophobicity/philicity; Heat treatment.

Hassan Imran Masud

Project Lead | PhD | ARC

Sub-project 5.3

Kinetics for Battery Grade Product processes for precursor cathode active materials

Theme 2, 3 + 5

This project aims to produce valorised battery-grade materials from precursor cathode and anode active materials (pCAM/pAAM) in hydrometallurgical/ionometallurgical LIB recycling processes. It will also investigate direct production of battery-grade materials from black mass, bypassing pCAM and pAAM production. Additionally, it will analyse the effects of solvent extraction and coprecipitation on the process performance and evaluate battery performance and cost against batteries produced from individual recycled materials. This project develops additional processes to produce battery grade materials from existing DES process products.

Mahaveer Bilkhu