CO2 capture enhancement of different zeolites through the utilization of valuable cathode metals from spent lithium-ion batteries.

Due to their exceptional properties, lithium-ion batteries are widely utilized in electronic devices and electric vehicles. However, their extensive use has highlighted the need for environmentally sustainable recycling methods. This study proposes a novel approach by using metals from spent lithium-ion batteries to modify CO2 capture abilities of different zeolite types, thereby contributing to the global progress towards achieving net zero emissions. The leach liquor was obtained by leaching metals from the batteries using a mixture of H2SO4 and H2O2. The study investigated the effect of ion concentrations on CO2 adsorption, including both breakthrough and full capacity. While no significant improvement in CO2 capture was observed for most zeolites, zeolite A showed enhanced breakthrough capacity after ion exchange. The breakthrough curve for zeolite A, with data points below 10 % breakthrough, was effectively modelled using the Bohart-Adams model. The results demonstrated the potential of zeolites, especially zeolite LTA, in both recycling metals from lithium-ion batteries and enhancing CO2 adsorption capacity.