Battery ‘breakthrough’ for Iondrive

Australian technology outfit Iondrive is claiming breakthrough results in its recycling of black mass from Li-ion batteries.

The company says the development is an important extension of previous studies which demonstrated the scalability of Iondrive’s recycling process and it anticipates moving onto a pilot operation.

Iondrive’s latest study demonstrates high recovery rates for metals, even using lower quality raw black mass. Recovery rates achieved include 100% for nickel, 98.6% for cobalt, 98.4% for manganese and 89.1% for lithium. Further testing suggests the potential for recovering 100% lithium.

Robustness

Ceo Ebbe Dommisse called the results ‘a major breakthrough’ for Iondrive. ‘Compared to our previous trials, which used pristine material, these new results demonstrate the robustness of our process, even with lower-quality, mixed material.’

‘Looking ahead, we expect to work with more consistent, higher-grade material through partnerships, which will further improve the efficiency and reliability of our recycling technology.’

A simple three-stage pretreatment process was found to be effective in removing impurities, including PVDF binder, graphite, and ferrous iron. Iondrive uses deep eutectic solvents and biodegradable organic solvents in a non-toxic, closed-loop process. This avoids toxic mineral acid leaching, minimising the environmental impact.

Commercial prospects

A pre-feasibility study is due to be completed by the end of October. Reports are being finalised for the Capex/Opex cost estimates for a commercial-scale recycling plant, along with a benchmarking assessment of the cost estimates against other hydrometallurgical recycling plants.

‘A successful PFS outcome opens the pathway to the development of a pilot plant, opportunities for collaboration with potential industry partners, as well as access to nondilutive financial support in Europe and Australia,’ a company financial statement adds.