Developing innovative and sustainable processes for lithium recycling and primary extraction

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This proposal describes the plan for the development of innovative and environmentally friendly extraction and recycling processes to address the sustainability challenges associated with lithium supply-demand imbalance. Nowadays, electrification of transportation and integration of renewables into electric grid are promoted to combat climate change, both relying on batteries. Lithium ion batteries, a notable generation of rechargeable batteries, are widely utilized in the industry; however, considering the projected increase in lithium consumption, the future availability of lithium resources and their cost is of concern. To resolve the bottleneck for the supply of lithium, urban mining of postconsumer batteries as well as enhancement of existing lithium primary extraction processes is imperative. This work will enable near-term waste valorization in Canadian energy storage industry, as well as long-term objectives of delivering significant environmental benefits and resolving lithium supply challenge. The work plan involves three concurrent Segments focusing on: (I) developing a supercritical fluid extraction process to recycle lithium from lithium ion batteries, (II) improving primary hydrometallurgical extraction processes for lithium, and (III) developing an electrodialysis process for producing high purity LiOH. Preliminary results have established proof-of-principle for these processes. To achieve the goals of the project, a multidisciplinary approach that places at the intersection of supercritical fluid engineering, process engineering and optimization, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and materials characterization will be followed. This project leverages expertise and funds from Hatch, a knowledge-based pioneer consulting firm and technology and in-plant service provider to the global metals, infrastructure, and energy sectors, in a three-year partnership with the Azimi group at the University of Toronto. This project is highly beneficial for Canada in terms of academic excellence, industrial competitive advantage, and highly qualified personnel, as it creates the opportunity for knowledge based economic and environmental impact as well as enhanced technical edge in the Canadian Minerals, Metals, and Energy sectors.****