Recovery, recycling and re-use of polymer binders from battery electrodes
This technology is a method to recycle and recover polyvinylidene fluoride polymer binders from composite battery electrodes.
Unmet Need: Simple and sustainable recycling of polymer binders in composite battery circuits
Battery waste disposal is a widespread problem that will exacerbate as energy systems further electrify in the future. Polymer binders such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), contained within battery electrodes, are usually burnt off or otherwise discarded as plastic waste. Neither solution is a responsible form of battery disposal, as burning PVDF emits greenhouse gases and solid waste contributes to the growing accumulation of nonbiodegradable plastic pollutants. As such, there is an emerging need for technologies and methods that can sustainably recycle polymer binders from composite battery electrodes.
The Technology: A low-temperature, solvent-based method to recycle PVDF polymer binders
This technology is an efficient chemical solution to enable recycling of battery electrode binders. A low-temperature, solvent-based method achieves 80% recovery of PVDF from end-of-life battery composite materials. The chemical treatment strips the device of metal oxides, carbon, and PVDF to form a solvate from which PVDF and other valuable components can be easily retrieved. As such, this technology enables the efficient recovery and re-use of PVDF in battery production in order to contribute to more environmentally-friendly and sustainable energy systems.
Applications:
- Recycling of PVDF from batteries
- Solvent-based electrode manufacturing
- Recovery of binder form other electronic devices
Advantages:
- Low material and energy costs
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Provides a route for the re-use of plastic binders
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU20251
Licensing Contact: Dovina Qu