Lithium-ion batteries are today powering the electric future — whether it’s electric cars, smartphones, or laptops. However, in its way, it’s also making way for a heap full of toxic waste, much worse than plastics.
However, one Massachusetts-based company dubbed Ascend Elements have developed a process that shreds used-up batteries to turn them into cathode materials that can be used to make fresh batteries.
Reported first by WBUR, the process creates a powder called ‘black mass’ that’s later filtered to get rid of impurities as well as extraction of individual metals, reducing the need for mining and causing a little less damage to the environment.
The recycled batteries can be customised to a variety of form factors and would also last longer than traditional EV batteries while also having a considerably longer life.
The firm, explaining their tech in a study stated, “Through our patented Hydro-to-Cathode process, our products can outperform materials made through primary mining and refining.”
It added, “In a recent study, our upcycled cathode cell exhibited over 50% longer cycle life than the traditional cathode cell, and its power capability was increased by 88%.”
Researchers have also highlighted that the process results in 93 percent lower carbon emissions and half the cost of newly mining the metals.
Majorly funded by Jaguar-Land Rover, the firm has already made deals with Honda to offer cathode materials for their electric vehicles. The company plans to open a large battery recycling plant in Georgia.
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