Enhancing the flotation separation of electrode active materials through the recycling of batteries

Efficient, clean separation of anode graphite from cathode active materials is a key bottleneck in closing the battery loop. It is well understood that froth flotation is the most efficient beneficiation technique for separating ultrafine graphite (anode material) from cathode materials. As an experimental and fundamental project, we aim to use new technologies and biodegradable materials in the flotation process for blackmass, which will be key to recycling valuable critical metals from spent NMC batteries. The primary objective of this project is to develop an approach to improve the separation efficiency of cathode materials from anode materials (graphite).

Facts

Duration: 2026-2027
Funding: This research is financed by the Wallenberg Initiative Materials Science for Sustainability (WISE) and co-financed by CAMM-CRM, a Swedish government-supported research initiative on critical raw materials at Luleå University of Technology.