ScholarWorks@중앙대학교

초록

The growing use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in electric vehicles and electronics presents significant end-of-life challenges. Safe and efficient discharge is a critical first step in recycling, as it eliminates residual energy while minimizing structural damage and hazardous by-products. This study investigates an electrolysis-based chemical discharge process using NaOH, NaCl, and Na2CO3 solutions, comparing discharge kinetics, material preservation, and electrolyte reusability. NaCl enables rapid discharge but causes severe corrosive damage, while Na2CO3 offers gentle but slow discharge (>12 h). In contrast, NaOH provides an effective balance—achieving fast discharge within 6 h with minimal structural degradation and demonstrating reusability over multiple cycles. These advantages are attributed to the formation of protective oxide layers on steel components and preferential OH−-driven water electrolysis over direct metal corrosion. Sealing the positive cap with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) further mitigates aluminum dissolution, preserving internal cell integrity. Gas analysis confirms that NaOH-based discharge generates only hydrogen and oxygen, enabling potential gas recovery for energy applications. Overall, this method offers a fast, low-damage, and sustainable approach to LIB discharge, facilitating safer battery handling, enhanced lithium recovery, and reduced hazardous waste—critical steps toward scalable and environmentally responsible battery recycling. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.

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