Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ario Fahimi, Serena Ducoli, Stefania Federici, Guozhu Ye, Elsayed Mousa, Patrizia Frontera, Elza Bontempi
Summary: This study investigates the sustainability of 33 different technologies for lithium-ion battery (LIB) recovery. The ESCAPE tool, which calculates embodied energy and carbon footprint, is used for evaluation. The results show that chemicals and ultrapure water consumption are the most energy-intensive processes, and pyrometallurgy can reduce carbon footprint and energy consumption compared to hydrometallurgy.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Andrew Carrick, Euan D. Doidge, Alexander Bouch, Gary S. Nichol, Jane Patrick, Emma R. Schofield, Carole A. Morrison, Jason B. Love
Summary: The study successfully extracted over 85% of rhodium from hydrochloric acid by utilizing the synergistic combination of a primary amine and a primary amide. This work highlights the need for ligands targeting specific metal complexes in the aqueous phase and provides an efficient synergistic solution for the solvent extraction of rhodium.
CHEMISTRY-A EUROPEAN JOURNAL
(2021)
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Yafei Shen
Summary: The recycling of electrode materials from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) focuses on the recovery of transition metals for the production of new batteries or catalysts. Hydrometallurgical processes are more commonly used than pyrometallurgical processes for the recovery of transition metal oxides, which have a significant impact on catalysis applications. Additionally, the synthesis of transition metal based compounds should be developed to enhance their photo-electro-catalytic activities.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Athanasios Spyridakos, Dimitrios E. Alexakis, Isaak Vryzidis, Nikolaos Tsotsolas, George Varelidis, Efthimios Kagiaras
Summary: This paper presents a multicriteria methodological frame for analyzing and determining the recycling capabilities of refractory material waste. Through chemical and physical analysis, marginal value functions and weight vectors are used to evaluate and determine the recycling prospects, resulting in an environmental appropriateness index for assessing the recycling of refractory materials.
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2022)
Article
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Archita Mohanty, Niharbala Devi
Summary: This paper highlights the importance of cobalt recovery from secondary resources, focusing on the green leaching method of utilizing organic acids to extract valuable metals from spent lithium-ion batteries. The use of organic acids as leachants is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and has potential to promote sustainable development in the battery industry.
MINERAL PROCESSING AND EXTRACTIVE METALLURGY REVIEW
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Asma Sikander, Steven Kelly, Kerstin Kuchta, Anika Sievers, Thomas Willner, Andrew S. Hursthouse
Summary: We propose a novel integrated model for recovering tantalum from tantalum-rich waste by combining hydro-metallurgical and bio-metallurgical processes. Leaching experiments with heterotrophs showed high efficiency in leaching manganese, but no tantalum was detected. An unidentified species was able to mobilize 16% tantalum in non-sterile tantalum capacitor scrap, but efforts to identify it failed. The proposed model involves microbial leaching with Penicillium simplicissimum to solubilize manganese, followed by a second leach with 4 M HNO3 to dissolve silver and impurities, resulting in concentrated pure tantalum.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Usman Saleem, Bhaskar Joshi, Sulalit Bandyopadhyay
Summary: With the increasing demand for energy, batteries play a key role in the energy transition as they are the fastest-growing energy storage technology globally. However, there is a need for innovation to mitigate the environmental impact of battery production and use. Recycling and reusing batteries offer sustainable value creation opportunities, but the lack of control over batteries hinders investment in the reuse market. On the other hand, recycling batteries has great potential for promoting sustainability through closed-loop material recirculation. This review aims to provide insights into industrial processes and the future of battery recycling in the EV battery value chain.
JOURNAL OF SUSTAINABLE METALLURGY
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jiadong Yu, Ju Li, Shang Zhang, Fan Wei, Yanjun Liu, Jinhui Li
Summary: This study utilizes the waste metal current collectors in spent lithium-ion batteries to promote atom economy and reduce chemical consumption. Through mechanochemical activation, efficient oxidation of current collector fragments and moderate valence reduction of metal oxides are achieved. The regenerated cathode material demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance and improved environmental impact.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2023)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Jonas Grafstrom, Siri Aasma
Summary: This paper examines how four barriers -technological, market, institutional and cultural - can prevent the implementation of a circular economy, and suggests that even small barriers could stop the emergence of a circular economy. The key to the development of a circular economy is to overcome barriers in technology, market, institution, and culture.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jaime A. Gomez Duran, Zeferino Gamino Arroyo, Fernando Israel Gomez Castro, Patricia Quintana Owen, Lorena Eugenia Sanchez Cadena, Monica V. Ayala Gomez
Summary: This study investigated the impact of various factors on the recovery of copper, lead, and iron from electronic waste through acid leaching. It was found that sub-millimetric particles showed better extraction rates for copper and iron, while the opposite was true for lead. The presence of hydrogen peroxide enhanced the extraction efficiency but also caused precipitation of iron and lead, making it inefficient for metal recovery. Calcium salts produced gypsum, which reduced the extraction yield of copper particles below 250 μm.
Review
Polymer Science
Carl G. Schirmeister, Rolf Muelhaupt
Summary: Plastics are widely used in everyday life and have become crucial for sustainable development. However, the increasing demand for plastics has led to a surge in plastic debris in the environment. Transitioning to a circular plastic economy through reuse, recycling, and carbon capture is vital for the future. Biodegradation and molecular recycling offer potential solutions to tackle plastic waste.
MACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Vivek Verma, Jegan Roy Joseph, Richa Chaudhary, Madhavi Srinivasan
Summary: The rapid increase in lithium-ion battery (LIBs) applications has led to a significant rise in spent LIBs. Extracting valuable metals from these spent LIB cathode materials through hydrometallurgy is a popular method, but often results in limited yield and quality of the metal salts obtained. This review aims to address the challenges in the precipitation processes and improve the quality and yield of the precursors for resynthesizing new LIB cathode materials.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Review
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kanit Hantanasirisakul, Montree Sawangphruk
Summary: The increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) worldwide has led to efforts in developing LIB components, battery pack architectures, and manufacturing processes for better and more affordable batteries. However, sustainable use of LIBs depends on the availability and cost of rare metals and the proper handling of toxic electrolytes. Effective utilization of retired LIBs through second use, electrode material repair, or material recovery is crucial for their circular life cycle. This review discusses the available options, environmental impacts, economic feasibility, and adoption examples of these processes.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Rosa Maria Martinez-V Vazquez, Juan Milan Garcia, Jaime De Pablo Valenciano
Summary: Recreational boating, a leisure and sports activity with growing interest, is facing the issue of abandoned boats, necessitating urgent solutions to reduce environmental risks. Research highlights the need for greater flexibility in court adjudication processes and the establishment of a specific legal framework for scrapping recreational craft.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2022)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Yi-Chin Tang, Jian-Zhi Wang, Yun-Hwei Shen
Summary: With the increasing demand for lithium batteries, a large amount of discarded batteries will be generated. Solvent extraction is a promising approach for the selective recovery of cobalt, nickel, and manganese in leachate from spent lithium batteries. This process can recover more than 93% of Mn, 90% of Co, and 90% of Ni, contributing to the supply of raw materials and reducing tensions related to mineral resources for lithium battery production.
Article
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Marja Rinne, Heini Elomaa, Sipi Seisko, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: A simulation-based life cycle assessment was conducted to compare the impacts of different cyanide-free chloride processing routes for refractory ores, showing that both leaching conditions and ore refractoriness strongly affect the environmental impacts of the process. The global warming potential in the direct leaching route was determined to vary between 7.7-17.0 t CO2-eq for 1 kg gold/Au, with suggested prerequisites for the sustainable application of the direct leaching process.
MINERAL PROCESSING AND EXTRACTIVE METALLURGY REVIEW
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ivan Korolev, Pelin Altinkaya, Mika Haapalainen, Eero Kolehmainen, Kirsi Yliniemi, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: This study introduces the newly developed EDRR method for continuous leaching-recovery-solution purification process. The research found that a longer duration of the EDRR process leads to higher gold recovery rates and lower energy consumption. The results also show that the gold concentration in the solution affects the efficiency of the EDRR process.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering
Jere Partinen, Petteri Halli, Sampsa Helin, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: In this study, a new waste battery leaching system was introduced, which utilizes elemental copper as both reductant and catalyst. By adding chloride ions, Cu+ species are stabilized as complexes, facilitating their use as catalysts for electron transfer. Under mild conditions, Co and Li dissolutions of over 90% were achieved, avoiding the use of high temperatures and concentrated acids commonly used in battery recycling studies.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Alexander Chernyaev, Yuanmin Zou, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: The study investigated the effectiveness of copper and iron as alternative reducing agents in the leaching of lithium-ion batteries, and the impact of added H2O2. It was found that aluminum was more efficient than copper in reducing Fe3+ to Fe2+, although copper exhibited a faster rate of iron reduction. The presence of H2O2 led to rapid oxidation of ferrous iron and copper, depleting all reducing agents.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zulin Wang, Kirsi Yliniemi, Eeva-Leena Rautama, Pyry-Mikko Hannula, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: This study investigates the sustainable preparation of Ag/Zn alloys through electrodeposition-redox replacement and the electrochemical dealloying behavior. Results show that Ag/Zn deposits with different compositions and microstructures can be obtained by varying the deposition parameters. Mass-transfer limitations have significant effects on the growth process, and selective dissolution of Zn allows for the tuning of the alloy's surface properties.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zulin Wang, Kirsi Yliniemi, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstom
Summary: This study proposes a novel and sustainable electrodeposition-redox replacement (EDRR) method for producing Cu/Zn alloys. By adjusting the EDRR parameters, Cu/Zn alloys with controllable properties can be obtained. The corrosion performance of the alloys can be tuned by varying the crystalline phases.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Marja Rinne, Petteri Halli, Jari Aromaa, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: This study evaluated the technical and environmental aspects of treating electric arc furnace dust using a novel process and compared it to the conventional Waelz process. Co-product recovery reduced environmental impacts, but high chemical consumption remained an issue in the novel process. Optimization of the roasting step is crucial.
JOURNAL OF SUSTAINABLE METALLURGY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Janez Kos, Seyedabolfazl Mousavihashemi, Benjamin P. Wilson, Eeva-Leena Rautama, Tanja Kallio
Summary: In this study, a comparative analysis of undoped and Al-doped LLZO prepared through solid state and sol-gel methods was conducted. The results showed that solid state synthesis forms LLZO at lower rates but results in a more stable material at higher temperatures. The addition of Al as a dopant further increased the thermal stability of the material. Sol-gel LLZO samples had significantly higher ionic conductivity compared to their solid state counterparts, and the addition of Al further increased the conductivity.
SOLID STATE IONICS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Coatings & Films
Zulin Wang, Kirsi Yliniemi, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstom
Summary: The electrodeposition-redox replacement (EDRR) method was investigated for the preparation of two types of functional surfaces. The effects of operating parameters such as deposition potential, deposition time, and redox replacement time were comprehensively studied. The results showed that coherent Cu/Zn/Ag coatings with various chemical compositions, crystalline phases and surface morphology could be obtained when Zn was used as the sacrificial metal. On the other hand, separated Cu/Ag particles with controllable chemical composition, particle size, and tunable surface plasmon resonance behavior were formed when Cu was the sacrificial metal. The EDRR method showed great versatility in creating high value-added functional materials from complex hydrometallurgical solutions.
SURFACE & COATINGS TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Vasuki Durairaj, Touko Liljestrom, Niklas Wester, Peter Engelhardt, Sami Sainio, Benjamin P. Wilson, Panpan Li, Katri S. Kontturi, Tekla Tammelin, Tomi Laurila, Jari Koskinen
Summary: This study comprehensively investigates the influence of nanocellulosic material properties on the electroanalytical performance of nanocellulose/CNT hybrid electrodes. By manipulating the functionalization and geometry of cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibers, and TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers, the optimal combination for hybrid electrode performance is determined. This research demonstrates for the first time the tunability of nanocellulose/CNT hybrid electrodes towards different biomolecules through the selection of nanocellulosic materials.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Pia Sinisalo, Mari Lundstrom
Summary: The aim of this study was to develop a process option for adding value to a leach residue from hydro-metallurgical nickel refining. The proposed flow sheet includes moderate temperature autogenous pressure leach, selenium removal, and copper electrowinning. Sensitivity analysis provides data for adapting the copper circuit to suit nickel refining.
MINERALS ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Samaneh Teimouri, Johannes Herman Potgieter, Mari Lundstroem, Caren Billing, Benjamin P. Wilson
Summary: This research proposes a new hydrometallurgical method using ionic liquids for the extraction of Zn, In, Ga, and Fe from electric arc furnace dust. Experimental results show that under optimal conditions, the combination of specific ionic liquids and oxidants can result in high extraction efficiency for the target metals and effective dissolution of impurity metal Fe.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Linfan Cui, Kirsi Yliniemi, Jaana Vapaavuori, Mari Lundstro
Summary: One way to address the increasing demand for metals and the depletion of high-grade raw materials is through innovative methods of metal recovery. Electrochemical recovery, specifically the combination of electrodeposition and redox replacement processes, has shown promise in efficiently recovering precious metals from underutilized secondary raw materials and hydrometallurgical solutions. This technology allows for the controllable preparation of metal coatings, nanoparticles, and functional surfaces, indicating its potential to alleviate material scarcity. In this review, we analyze the progress and future prospects of electrochemical recovery for metal recovery and the creation of high-value-added materials, including energy efficiency and sustainable materials.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Jayasree Biswas, Sofia Ulmala, Xingbang Wan, Jere Partinen, Mari Lundstrom, Ari Jokilaakso
Summary: Selective sulfation roasting was investigated as a potential recycling strategy to extract cobalt and lithium from an industrial lithium cobalt oxide (LCO)-rich black mass. The effect of graphite on metal extraction was studied. The results suggest that Co and Li can be selectively extracted from the black mass by sulfation roasting pre-treatment followed by leaching in water.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Saeed Rahimpour Golroudbary, Andrzej Kraslawski, Benjamin P. Wilson, Mari Lundstroem
Summary: Nickel is used in batteries to increase energy density and storage capacity. Nickel-rich cathode materials, such as NCA and NMC, are commonly used in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. The demand for nickel has been increasing due to the growing battery technologies. However, the sustainable supply of nickel is at risk, and the circularity of nickel needs to be enhanced.
FRONTIERS IN CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojian Liu, Bei Wang, Yayun Ma, Xiangyang Zhou, Juan Yang, Yuehui He, Jingjing Tang, Fanyun Su, Wan Yang
Summary: This study proposes a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid leaching to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing the reducing gas produced from the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of the cathode powder is destroyed and converted into Li2CO3, Ni, Co, and MnO. Additionally, selective extraction of lithium is achieved using oxalic acid, and the efficiency and kinetics of lithium extraction are improved under the combined action of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Muxina Konarova, Nuno Batalha, Gabriel Fraga, Mohamed H. M. Ahmed, Steven Pratt, Bronwyn Laycock
Summary: This study presents a proof of concept for a technology that integrates PET recovery from mixed plastic waste and plastic pyrolysis. By depolymerizing PET into TPA using a low volatility oil as medium, it achieves low-pressure operation and a selective separation and recovery of TPA from the product mix. Full PET conversion and high TPA recovery were achieved, making it an effective solution for processing mixed waste streams and improving the yield and quality of liquid product from thermal pyrolysis compared to untreated feedstock.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zhenhua Sun, Jing Li, Xuejiang Wang, Siqing Xia, Jianfu Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the influence of in-situ formed MgFe2O4 on the hydrothermal treatment of swine manure. The results showed that the in-situ formation of MgFe2O4 improved the dehydration and decarboxylation of organic components in swine manure, thereby improving its carbonization degree. Furthermore, it enhanced the stabilization of heavy metals and the retention of phosphorus. MgFe2O4 modified hydrochars exhibited remarkable adsorption capacity for Pb(II) and Cu(II) without any leaching of heavy metals.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yijing Jiang, Boyang Leng, Jingxin Xi
Summary: The increased generation of municipal solid waste has had a significant impact on the economy, environment, and public health. The current waste treatment process has limitations. By developing a comprehensive social costing model, this study assesses the impacts of municipal solid waste management throughout its life cycle and provides policymakers with best practices and feasibility information.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marina Hernandes de Paula e Silva, Ricardo Coser Mergulha, Jose Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Andrea Brasco Pampanelli, Rodrigo Salvador, Diogo Aparecido Lopes Silva
Summary: This study developed and implemented a self-assessment tool to assist companies in decision-making processes for establishing circular flows based on Lean Manufacturing and Circular Economy principles. The tool utilized a maturity model and was applied to nine companies of varying characteristics. The findings revealed that certain companies showed higher maturity in water-waste and chemical-emissions management, with larger enterprises focusing on these strategies. However, many companies lacked sufficient training and employee awareness prior to seeking cleaner alternatives, and comprehensive actions to manage the product lifecycle were lacking. To address these gaps, the tool provided tailored recommendations for each company to improve their processes, products, and value chain.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Gamze Dogdu, Turgay Pekdemir, Sanaz Lakestani, Seyda Karabork, Osman Cavus
Summary: This paper presents data on food waste associated with mini size food packaging services, highlighting the difficulties in emptying the food and consumer wastefulness as the main causes. These findings have significant implications for the sustainability of food and relevant packaging.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingxia Li, Xin Kong, Yuxin Chen, Jianan Niu, Jia Jing, Jin Yuan, Yifeng Zhang
Summary: This study investigates how to enhance methane production from food waste after hydrothermal pretreatment. The results demonstrate a significant increase in methane yield when zero-valent iron and magnetite are used together, and high organic loading is favorable for methane production. Microbial diversity analysis further reveals the dominant pathways and metabolic processes involved in methane generation.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. H. H. Sim, I. A. W. Tan, L. L. P. Lim, E. T. Lau, B. H. Hameed
Summary: The development of controlled-release fertilizer formulation is important for preventing environmental pollution caused by nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study combined biochar-based fertilizer with encapsulation technology to improve the nutrient release mechanism. Optimal conditions for synthesizing urea-impregnated biochar (UIB) were determined using central composite design, and the release of nitrogen was described by mathematical models. Results showed that encapsulated UIB (EUIB) achieved complete release of nitrogen in water and exhibited improved water retention in sandy-textural soil. Therefore, EUIB derived from peppercorn waste has the potential to be used as a sustainable controlled-release fertilizer for agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuchuan Wang, Neslihan Akdeniz
Summary: Incorporating biochar into composting systems can increase compost temperatures. This study developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system and found that biochar increased thermal conductive losses but also enhanced microbial activity, resulting in an overall increase in total heat unit. When biochar was applied on the surface, it mainly functioned as an insulator.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
George Tsalis, Birger Boutrup Jensen, Jessica Aschemann-Witzel
Summary: This paper empirically explores the relationship between retail price promotions and household food waste. The results show that households with a higher proportion of discount food purchases and environmental awareness tend to waste less food, while larger households and those lacking food handling skills tend to waste more food.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lukas Friederici, Arne Koch, Patrick Martens, Jana Pantzke, Sebastiano Di Bucchianico, Thorsten Streibel, Christopher P. Rueger, Ralf Zimmermann
Summary: The increasing demand for lightweight materials has led to a rise in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) production. However, the properties and compositional range of FRPs pose challenges to recycling strategies. Pyrolysis has emerged as a promising method for separating the fibers from the polymer matrix. This study investigated the pyrolysis process using thermal analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and also assessed the toxicity of the recovered fibers using an in vitro model.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Devika Kannan, Shakiba Khademolqorani, Nassibeh Janatyan, Somaieh Alavi
Summary: This paper introduces Smart Waste Management (SWM) that applies Industry 4.0 technologies in waste management. A framework called SWM4.0 is developed, which highlights the importance of smart people, smart cities, smart enterprises, and smart factories in achieving successful waste management. The paper also suggests future research directions and managerial implications.
