Researchers have developed a breakthrough method to recover high-purity nickel, cobalt, manganese and lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries using a mild, sustainable solvent.

The process, detailed in the journal Sustainable Materials and Technologies, offers a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional high-temperature or chemical-intensive recycling methods.

Globally, around 500,000 metric tons of spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have already accumulated, and about 10% of spent batteries are fully recycled in Australia.