Proof-of-concept of a novel battery recycling approach: Whole process electrolysis (WPE) method

Abstract

In order to make battery recycling process greener and more cost-effective, an innovative whole process electrolysis (WPE) concept is proposed in this work. Herein, proof-of-concept for the WPE battery recycling approach is carried out. A recycling routine producing PbI2 from spent lead-acid battery is designed based on the WPE concept. Details of the recycling routine is discussed, and zero energy consumption & zero waste generation for the whole process can be proved. The WPE battery recycling concept is expected to be an alternative choice to the traditional metallurgical battery recycling approach, to realize more sustainable battery recycling.

Keywords

• Spent lead-acid battery
• Whole process electrolysis
• Recycling
• Lead Iodide