Energy storage /
Batteries /

'Black mass' analysis for battery recycling

To pave the way for optimizing battery recycling processes, a proper analysis of ‘black mass’ and spent battery components before and after recycling is very important.

This service is also relevant in: Circular transition, Metrology, Chemical and biological analysis

Service details

Service: 'Black mass' analysis for battery recycling
Delivery level: Non-accredited
Price: Price on tender

Moufida Mansouri

Senior researcher

+46 10 516 57 69 Read more about Moufida

Fredrik Solhage

Enhetschef

+46 10 516 56 66 Read more about Fredrik

Purpose

‘Black mass’ is the industry term used to describe the product obtained from crushing and shredding spent Li-ion batteries. It comprises a mixture of elements, including graphite, lithium, manganese, nickel, cobalt, electrolyte, separator, impurities, etc.

A comprehensive analysis protocol is essential for evaluating the black mass derived from various battery chemistries. This protocol should encompass all necessary property assessments before and after the recycling process. By identifying potential hazards and mitigating associated risks, the protocol ensures safe and efficient recycling operations.

Methods

Explore our Characterization

Metals and impurities: The determination of compositions in ‘black mass’ and related materials can be effectively carried out using techniques such Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry ICP-OES, Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry ICP-MS, X-ray fluorescence XRF.
Level of moisture: The level of moisture in the ‘black mass’ is determined using titration.
HF-content: The content of HF can be determined using titration.
PF6-content: The content of PF6 can be determined using Ion Chromatography, IC.
Morphological analysis and particle size determination: The morphological characteristics, grain size, and composition can be determined using Scanning Electron microscopy SEM+EDS
Electrolyte analysis using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry GC-MS:

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is an analytical technique that is highly effective for analyzing ‘black mass’ such as determining the composition of carbonates. For example ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, diethyl carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate etc.

Delivery

Report and results

Related

Safe, Scalable and Sustainable Battery Recycling

RISE helps you increase recycling rates, meet regulatory requirements and position yourself in a rapidly growing market. We support stakeholders across the entire value chain – from material suppliers and battery manufacturers to recyclers, technology providers and companies with battery-powered products. With strong technical expertise, testbeds and an independent role, we offer concrete solutions tailored to your needs.

Water content determination in battery electrolytes

Water is an impurity in Li-ion electrolytes. This is because water reacts, breaks down, important components such as the active salt LiPF6. Control of production and recycling processes towards low water levels is of great importance. We offer analysis of water content in, among other things, ketone-based electrolytes.

Electrolyte solvent composition -chemical analysis

The polar solvents used to dissolve the active salts (eg LiPF6) in Li-ion batteries are often carbonates, eg diethyl carbonate or propylene carbonate. The main composition, impurity profile and degradation products are of interest in production and recycling processes. We offer to quantify and identify these substances.

Chemical and biological analysis / Expertise

PFAS analysis

RISE offers various tests for analysis of PFAS in materials, goods, articles, products, water, soil and food. There is no method that measures all PFAS, but depending on what you want to know, we will choose the appropriate method(s). Contact us and we will help you.

Determination of HF in battery electrolyte using titration

HF in battery electrolyte is formed when water hydrolyses e.g. LiPF6. HF is seen as a contaminant and gives lower capacity of the battery and destroys certain electrode materials. We perform several determinations of fluorine species including HF in electrolyte.

Opening of batteries-post mortem analysis

Opening Li-ion batteries for detailed studies of aging or breakdown is very useful for increased understanding. Likewise, other types of batteries can be opened after discussion. Visual assessment as well as chemical and physical analyzes are linked to the materials that are exposed. For example, electron microscopy (SEM) can be performed.

Determination of elements in battery materials

Determination of the content of a large number of elements in battery materials including electrolyte, electrodes and separators and casing is performed with screening techniques such as semi-quantitative ICP / MS or with specialized measurements with very small measurement uncertainty.

Determination of water content in electrode material

The water content needs to be as low as possible in all materials included in a Li-ion battery build. The water content of the solid electrode sheets can be determined with our Karl Fischer set-up.