"The research results show that this new method is able to achieve higher lithium recovery rates, reduce the use of valuable resources, and produce less waste," BRIN's researcher at the Mining Technology Research Center, Erik Prasetyo, noted in a statement received from his office on Thursday.
According to Prasetyo, the new method involves the use of selective extraction to separate lithium from other metals, the use of environmentally friendly solvents, such as water, and utilizing solid phase extraction techniques to increase the lithium concentration.
Lithium separation and purification is considered as the latest development in battery recycling technology, Prasetyo explained.
He highlighted that currently, the recovery of lithium in the battery recycling process is still low and does not meet the requirements as a precursor for battery cathode production. The recycling process also wastes water and chemicals and produces hazardous waste.
Hence, the new method, which is still in the development stage, has the potential to improve the efficiency and sustainability of lithium battery recycling and also to meet the growing demand for lithium, he remarked.
"Currently, the contribution of recycling to global lithium production is still very minimal," he stated.
Prasetyo elaborated on three important reasons for lithium recycling. He explained that firstly, recycling helps to conserve natural resources, as lithium is a limited natural resource, so recycling can reduce the need for new lithium mining.
Secondly, recycling can reduce the environmental impact, as lithium batteries contain hazardous materials that can pollute the environment if not managed properly.
“Lastly, recycling also increases energy security by expanding the supply of lithium for overall battery production,” he said.
Related news: BRIN researches coal waste for sustainable shallot farming
Related news: Large lithium reserve discovered in Indonesian territory: Minister
Translator: Sugiharto Purnama, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
