The recycling of lithium-ion batteries represents a strategic challenge for the energy transition, as it generates a new complex fraction of waste called black mass, a heterogeneous mixture containing metals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and manganese. Although this fraction offers an opportunity for the recovery of critical materials, identifying their composition is particularly complex. Currently, available analytical technologies are based on destructive chemical assays which, although precise, are slow, costly, and difficult to adapt to industrial environments. This limits separation processes and represents a barrier to the circularity of critical materials.

In this context, the BATCAT project will develop new methodologies for compositional analysis of black mass with the aim of facilitating the characterization, classification and valorisation of this fraction in battery recycling processes. The project proposes a system based on the combination of two complementary techniques: LIBS (Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy), for the detection and quantification of metallic elements; and MWRRS (Multiwavelength Resonant Raman Spectroscopy) for the identification of crystalline phases, oxides and molecular compounds such as graphite. This innovative approach will allow composition information to be obtained in almost real time and with the potential for future integration in industrial processes of classification and valorisation of critical materials, contributing to a more efficient, safe and sustainable management of battery waste.

The project has already started and has a total budget of almost 100 thousand euros and a duration of 2 years. The project consortium is made up of two entities: IREC, a TECNIO reference centre in spectroscopic technologies and energy, and Lenz Instruments, a company specialized in optical inspection technologies based on LIBS and AI, which will be in charge of the overall technical coordination of the project.

IREC’s role in this project will focus on the experimental development and validation of the MWRRS technique. In addition, they will participate in the development of reference analysis methodologies (e.g. XRD, GDOES, XRF) and collaborate in the verification of the global system under simulated conditions.

Acknowledgments (in Catalan)

Amb el suport d’ACCIÓ i l’Agència de Residus de Catalunya.