Recent Advances on Eco-Friendly Techniques on Separating Active Materials from Current Collectors in Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries
Yuhao Xia, Fanbo Meng, Yuzhang Xiao, Sirui Nie, Weihao Lin, Qiying Han, Sen Li, Bin Yuan, Renzong Hu
Abstract
Recycling treatments of spent Li-ion batteries (LIBs) have become a global focus. However, traditional industrial recycling methods would result in high energy consumption and significant pollution. Eco-friendly techniques can improve resource recovery efficiency, simplify subsequent processes, and enhance product quality. Herein, this spotlight reviews recent advances in the several eco-friendly separation technologies of spent LIBs. First, we investigate the complex active interfacial issues of active material and current collector on restricting the separation process. Subsequently, the working mechanism and separation performances of various separation technologies are comprehensively compared and discussed from multiple perspectives. The existing challenges and limitations associated with each strategy are also critically analyzed. At last, we offer a crucial direction for the green recycling of spent LIBs. This spotlight may not only promote the development of resource circularity but also lay a foundation for building a sustainable battery industry chain.