The U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials & Manufacturing Technologies Office (AMMTO) has announced a significant investment of $2 million aimed at propelling innovation in lithium-ion battery (LIB) rejuvenation, recycling, and reuse. This initiative, administered through the ReCell Center located at Argonne National Laboratory, marks a pivotal step towards fostering a clean energy future powered by sustainable battery technologies.

The selection of eight projects under this investment is part of AMMTO’s strategic efforts to drive research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) projects in collaboration with DOE National Laboratories and industry partners. These projects, supported by Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs) with a 50% cost share between DOE and private partners, are poised to revolutionize LIB remanufacturing technologies.

AMMTO’s collaboration with key DOE National Laboratories, including Argonne National Laboratory (Argonne), National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and Idaho National Laboratory (INL), underscores the collective commitment to advancing clean energy solutions. LIBs power a wide range of applications, from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and home storage systems, making innovations in this sector crucial for sustainable development.

The selected projects are categorized into two main topic areas:

1. Development of Room Temperature Process for Recycling and Reuse of Electrodes
   • Projects Awarded: 5
   • Participating Laboratories: Argonne, NREL, ORNL, and INL
   • Participating Industry Partners: Cirba Solutions, Li Industries Inc., Nth Cycle, Koura Global, and Storagenergy Technologies

1. Recycling of Electrolytes

1. • Projects Awarded: 3
   • Participating Laboratories: Argonne, ORNL, and INL
   • Participating Industry Partners: Austin Elements, American Battery Technology Company, and Koura Global

These projects encompass a wide array of innovative approaches related to lithium-ion batteries, from developing room temperature recycling processes for electrodes to advancing electrolyte recycling techniques. The involvement of leading industry players underscores the collaborative effort to drive sustainable practices in battery manufacturing and recycling.

AMMTO acknowledges the critical importance of addressing the increasing demand for LIBs and the pivotal role of advanced remanufacturing technologies in ensuring America’s energy independence. The selected projects align with the Energy Technology and Manufacturing Workforce (ETMW) subprogram’s vision, emphasizing the rapid transition from foundational recycling research to applied RD&D.

The ReCell Center, affiliated with AMMTO and established by DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Office, serves as a testament to the collaborative spirit driving innovation in battery recycling technologies. By uniting industry expertise, academic research, and the capabilities of national laboratories, the ReCell Center aims to catalyze the growth of a sustainable advanced battery recycling industry.

This investment not only fosters technological advancements but also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure, aligning with broader national goals of achieving clean energy targets and mitigating environmental impact. The collective efforts of AMMTO, DOE National Laboratories, industry partners, and research institutions underscore a shared commitment to shaping a greener and more sustainable future through advanced battery technologies and recycling practices.