Chinese Researchers Develop CO₂-Based Lithium Recycling Method with Compliance Implications

A research team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Beijing Institute of Technology has developed a novel lithium-ion battery recycling method that replaces hazardous chemicals with carbon dioxide and water. Published in Nature Communications, this approach recovers over 95% of lithium from spent batteries while converting transition metals into reusable catalysts—potentially reshaping waste compliance frameworks for electronics manufacturers.

The process involves two key stages: First, battery cathodes undergo mechanochemical treatment without grinding aids. Second, the material is leached using CO₂-rich water, where carbonic acid formation selectively separates lithium as water-soluble lithium bicarbonate. Crucially, the entire procedure operates at ambient temperatures without traditional leaching agents like sulfuric acid or high-heat treatments.

Compliance Requirements

• Chemical Handling: Eliminates need for hazardous leaching reagents listed under EPA Hazardous Waste Regulations (40 CFR Part 261)
• Emissions Control: Avoids sulfur oxide/nitrogen oxide emissions regulated by Clean Air Act standards
• Waste Processing: Converts cobalt/nickel residues directly into oxygen evolution reaction catalysts, bypassing secondary acid-leaching requirements
• Carbon Reporting: Qualifies as carbon sequestration under ISO 14064 standards due to CO₂ conversion into bicarbonate intermediates

Implementation Timeline

While not yet commercially deployed, manufacturers should monitor three adoption phases:

1. Validation Phase (2026-2027): Independent verification of 95% lithium recovery claims and catalyst functionality
2. Pilot Scaling (2028-2029): Waste facility certification under ISO 15270 standards for plastic waste recycling
3. Full Compliance Integration (2030+): Potential inclusion in EU Battery Regulation Annex II recycling protocols

This method diverges from the similar BRAWS process developed by Ames National Laboratory, which focuses on anode extraction and hydrogen byproducts. Both approaches face scalability challenges—current recycling infrastructure relies on pyrolytic furnaces reaching 1,400°C, while CO₂ methods require pressurized gas handling systems. Electronics compliance officers should review waste stream classifications now to accommodate future transition metal catalyst byproducts under RCRA hazardous waste codes.

For detailed process specifications, refer to the original study in Nature Communications. Battery manufacturers must document any sequestration claims using EPA Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program methodologies.