Toxicity Identification and Evolution Mechanism of Thermolysis-Driven Gas Emissions from Cathodes of Spent Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) typically contain a combination of both strategic materials and toxic chemicals that cannot be easily disposed. Nowadays, that are many different methods used to treat spent LIBs with the primary aim of critical metals recovery; nevertheless, as a result of the toxic chemicals within the battery waste, the chemical composition and potential danger of the off-gases generated during recycling process have become a serious concern. In an attempt to further understand the characteristics of the off-gases that are emitted from spent LIBs cathodes during thermolysis process, a system of thermogravimetry–differential thermal analysis coupled with mass spectrometry equipped with skimmer-type interface and with electron ionization (TG-DSC-EI-MS) has been employed to qualitatively analyze the generated off-gases. Based on the obtained observations, it was confirmed that inorganic gases of H2, H2O, CO2, gaseous hydrocarbons, and fluoride-containing gases were generated. Moreover, t...