Mechanochemical oxidation turns a profit from battery recycling

A photo of a rechargeable battery in a car

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New lithium extraction method follows principles of green chemistry

Researchers in China have developed a mechanochemical method for extracting lithium from spent LiFePO4 batteries. Their process generates Li3PO4, which can be re-sold at a profit to battery manufacturers, alongside two other chemical products so could effectively provide users with a cash incentive for recycling such batteries.