GEMINI SURFACTANT FOR USEIN RECYCLING LITHIUM BATTERIES

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GEMINI SURFACTANT FOR USEIN RECYCLING LITHIUM BATTERIES

  • US 11,802,244B1

  • الصحة - Health

  • 2023

  • مكتب البراءات الأمريكي - US Patent Office

  • Tushar KantiSen, Al-Ahsa(SA); Chi Phan, Al-Ahsa(SA)

  • The Gemini surfactant described here is an anion surfactant with the specific formula structure involving phosphate groups, which is utilized in the recycling of lithium batteries. The example compound with 𝑥 = 5 x=5, 𝑦 = 2 y=2, and 𝑧 = 4 z=4 refers to a specific chain length and molecular structure tailored for its application in breaking down and removing the polymer binders used in lithium-ion battery electrodes. Here’s a quick breakdown of key components and how they work in this process: Gemini Surfactants: These are surfactants with two hydrophobic tails (represented by the CxH2x+1 and CyH2y+1) and two hydrophilic headgroups (the phosphate groups, PO4). The dual hydrophobic/hydrophilic nature gives them superior performance in solubilizing or dispersing materials, especially useful for processes like battery recycling, where separation of components is key. Polymer Binder Removal: During the recycling of lithium batteries, one of the main challenges is to remove the polymer binders that hold the electrode materials together. Traditionally, solvents like NMP (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone) have been used for this purpose, but they are expensive and can have environmental concerns. Triethyl Phosphate (TEP): TEP is being introduced as a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional solvents. Although TEP has weaker binder solubility compared to NMP, the Gemini surfactants are designed to work together with TEP, assisted by sonication (high-frequency sound waves), which helps in the breakup and dissolution of the polymer binders. Environmental Benefit: By using a phosphate-based solvent like TEP and a phosphate-based Gemini surfactant, the recycling process becomes both cheaper and more sustainable, which is a significant advantage over conventional methods.