Efficient leaching of valuable metals from NCM cathode materials by green deep eutectic solvent

The soaring surge in electric vehicle sales has led to a significant rise in the demand and production of lithium-ion batteries. Consequently, a considerable number of lithium-ion batteries are retired annually, posing potential environmental pollution and economic losses if not appropriately disposed. In consideration of the aforementioned, a novel and environmentally conscientious approach is posited for the extraction of valuable metals from lithium-ion battery cathode materials, thereby ensuring economic efficiency. The method in question employs a deep eutectic solvent composed of tetraethylammonium chloride and L-ascorbic acid, facilitating the effective leaching of lithium nickel cobalt manganate cathode material within a brief duration of 3 min, even at a relatively low temperature of 80 °C. Notably, elevated leaching rates, specifically 99.1% for lithium, 99.6% for nickel, 99.4% for cobalt, and 99.3% for manganese, have been attained. The overall leaching process is characterized by its efficiency, environmental friendliness, and ease of operation, presenting a promising solution for the recycling of waste lithium-ion batteries.