Researchers at the Université de Sherbrooke in Canada have developed a groundbreaking technique for the extraction of valuable metals from spent alkaline batteries, offering a sustainable solution to the growing problem of battery waste.
In a study published in the Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, the researchers detailed a method for extracting potassium, zinc, and manganese from spent batteries that is not only more cost-effective but also more energy-efficient than existing methods. This technique, based on hydrometallurgy, utilizes aqueous solutions to extract the metals at room temperature, reducing energy consumption.
Lead researcher Noelia Muñoz García emphasized the importance of recycling these metals from batteries, which account for over 70% of the volume of spent batteries in North America. Improper disposal of batteries can lead to the leaching of harmful compounds into the soil and groundwater, posing environmental and health risks.
By using three separate steps for metal extraction, the researchers were able to achieve a total extraction efficiency of 99.6% for zinc and 86.1% for manganese. This method results in higher quality leachates, reducing downstream purification costs.
Moving forward, the researchers aim to scale up their extraction technique for industrial and commercial use. They also plan to develop separation and purification units to obtain zinc and manganese of high enough quality to introduce them to the market.
This innovative approach to battery recycling not only mitigates environmental risks but also contributes to the principles of a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled, creating a more sustainable and efficient resource management system.
