Selective extraction of lithium from spent EV batteries by using organic acid

Abstract:

Rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has intensified the need for effective lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery recycling methods. This research presents an oxalic acid-hydrogen peroxide leaching process for selective lithium recovery from spent EV batteries. Optimization of acid concentration, H₂O₂ dosage, pulp density, reaction time, and temperature achieved 99.4% lithium extraction efficiency.

Optimal conditions comprised 10% (w/v) oxalic acid, 5% (v/v) H₂O₂, 100 g/L pulp density, 300 rpm stirring speed, and 60°C for 4 hours. XRD and SEM analyses verified the purity and morphology of the recovered lithium material. This method enables complete LFP battery recycling, advances circular economy principles, minimizes environmental impact, simplifies waste management, and provides substantial benefits to the EV sector.