Method for processing mixture from battery and method for processing battery

Abstract

The invention provides a method for processing a mixture from a battery and a method for processing a battery. The purpose of the present invention is to efficiently remove a binder used in a positive electrode and recover a positive electrode material containing a valuable metal from a used secondary battery. A method for processing a mixture derived from a battery, said mixture containing an organic material and a positive electrode material for a battery, said positive electrode material containing at least one of nickel, cobalt, and manganese, the method for treating a mixture from a battery includes disposing a mixture from a battery in a treatment environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and a predetermined humidity, and supplying an active oxygen species to the treatment environment to cause water present in the treatment environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals. And decomposing the organic matters by using the generated hydroxyl radicals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for treating a mixture from batteries and to a method for treating batteries. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to ensure that more people have access to suitable, reliable, sustainable and advanced energy, research and development related to the recycling of secondary batteries that contribute to energy efficiency has been carried out. For example, in lithium-ion batteries and all-solid-state batteries, there are batteries with stacked electrodes formed by stacking positive and negative plates with a separator. The positive electrode of this battery uses a ternary positive electrode material (NCM) composed of nickel, cobalt and manganese. Therefore, methods for recovering valuable metals such as NCM from used secondary batteries have been proposed in the past.

[0003] In order to recover valuable metals from batteries, it is necessary to separate the positive electrode active material containing the valuable metals from the positive electrode structure. As a method for this, a technology for removing the binder that fixes the positive electrode active material has been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an apparatus for recovering positive electrode active material from waste electrode materials of used batteries. According to the apparatus of Patent Document 1, by subjecting the waste electrode material containing the positive electrode active material to a high-temperature heat treatment, the binder contained in the positive electrode structure is removed, thereby separating the positive electrode active material from the current collector. In addition, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for dissolving the binder using a solvent to recover the positive electrode active material.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-521735 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] However, in the method of utilizing a solvent to remove the binder, a large amount of energy is required to process the solvent after use, so there is a problem of high environmental burden. In addition, it is necessary to appropriately select the solvent according to the type of the binder, and there is a problem from the perspective of practicality. In addition, in the method of removing the binder by heat treatment, it is impossible to avoid that the material form (crystal structure, etc.) of the valuable metal of the recycling object changes. Therefore, in order to reuse the recycled valuable metal as a positive active material, there is a problem of processing that the recycled metal oxide is reduced. In this way, in order to recycle the material for the positive electrode of the battery, it is necessary to efficiently remove the method of the binder.

[0009] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present application aims to efficiently remove the binder used in the positive electrode to recover the positive electrode material containing valuable metals from used secondary batteries, thereby contributing to energy efficiency.

[0010] Means for solving problems

[0011] One embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for treating a mixture derived from a battery, wherein the mixture derived from a battery is a mixture comprising a positive electrode material of a battery containing at least one of nickel, cobalt, and manganese, and organic matter. The method for treating the mixture derived from a battery places the mixture derived from a battery in a treatment environment adjusted to a specified temperature and a specified humidity, supplies active oxygen species to the treatment environment, thereby causing water present in the treatment environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, and utilizes the generated hydroxyl radicals to decompose the organic matter.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a binder used in a positive electrode of a battery can be efficiently removed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing the structure of a target battery as an example of a battery to which the present disclosure is applied.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a method of handling a battery.

[0016] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a disassembling device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0018] [1. Structure of the target battery]

[0019] Figure 1 This figure shows the structure of a target battery 10, an example of a battery to which the present disclosure is applicable, schematically illustrating a cross-section of the target battery 10. The target battery 10 is a secondary battery capable of both charge and discharge. The target battery 10 described in this embodiment is a laminated battery in which battery materials are enclosed in a laminate material 22, and has an overall flat plate shape. The target battery 10 can be referred to as a pouch-type battery, a laminate-type battery cell, a pouch-type battery cell, a lithium-ion battery cell, or a battery module.

[0020] The target battery 10 is a secondary battery known as a lithium-ion battery, which has attracted attention as a storage device with high energy density. Examples of positive electrode active materials for lithium-ion batteries include lithium cobalt oxide, lithium nickel oxide, lithium manganese oxide, and lithium iron phosphate. In addition, examples of positive electrode active materials include ternary positive electrode materials (NCMs) containing nickel, cobalt, and manganese. Examples of negative electrode active materials for lithium-ion batteries include carbon-based materials. In addition, all-solid-state batteries using solid electrolytes as electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries are known.

[0021] Nickel, cobalt, and manganese, used as positive electrode active materials in lithium-ion batteries and all-solid-state batteries, are known as valuable metals and are required to be recovered from used batteries. Therefore, in this embodiment, a highly efficient treatment method for these metals is disclosed. In the treatment method disclosed herein, the electrode material to be recovered is the valuable metal contained in the target battery 10, more specifically, the NCM-related compounds contained in the positive electrode active material of the positive electrode composite 32. In other words, it is a substance containing at least one of nickel, cobalt, and manganese.

[0022] Hereinafter, a positive electrode material (positive electrode active material) containing at least one of nickel, cobalt, and manganese will be abbreviated as NCM.

[0023] like Figure 1 As shown, the target battery 10 has a structure in which a stacked electrode 21 is housed in a laminate material 22. The laminate material 22 is a laminate film having a base material made of a metal material such as an aluminum alloy or stainless steel. The laminate material 22 functions as the outer casing of the target battery 10 and as a sealant that seals the stacked electrode 21.

[0024] The target battery 10 of this embodiment is a flat plate formed by laminating two laminate materials 22 . A pair of current collector tabs 23A and 23B for extracting power from the target battery 10 penetrates the outer casing and is exposed from the end of the target battery 10 .

[0025] The laminated electrode 21 is a multilayer structure composed of positive plates 11 and negative plates 12, with separators 13 disposed between each of the positive plates 11 and negative plates 12. The separators 13 are disposed between the positive plates 11 and negative plates 12 to prevent short circuits between the positive plates 11 and negative plates 12.

[0026] The positive electrode plates 11 and the negative electrode plates 12 are alternately arranged, and one positive electrode plate 11 and one negative electrode plate 12 facing each other constitute one electrode plate pair. The laminated electrode 21 is formed by laminating two or more electrode plate pairs.

[0027] The positive electrode plate 11 includes a rectangular plate-shaped positive electrode collector 31, with positive electrode composite material 32 disposed on both sides of the positive electrode collector 31. The positive electrode collector 31 is, for example, aluminum foil or aluminum plate. The positive electrode composite material 32 includes, for example, NCM, a conductive material, a conductive additive, and a binder. The positive electrode plate 11 has a positive terminal 11A extending from an end of the positive electrode plate 11. The positive terminals 11A extending from the two or more positive electrode plates 11 constituting the stacked electrode 21 are each connected to a current collector tab 23A.

[0028] The negative electrode plate 12 includes a rectangular negative electrode current collector 41. A negative electrode composite material 42 is provided on the surface of the negative electrode current collector 41 that faces the positive electrode plate 11. Copper foil, for example, is used for the negative electrode current collector 41. The negative electrode plate 12 has a negative electrode terminal 12A extending from an end of the negative electrode plate 12. Negative electrode terminals 12A extending from the two or more negative electrode plates 12 that constitute the stacked electrode 21 are each connected to a current collector tab 23B.

[0029] The current collector tabs 23A and 23B are formed of a thin plate-shaped metal material such as copper or aluminum, and are passed between the two laminate materials 22 to be exposed to the outside.

[0030] When the target battery 10 is a lithium-ion battery, a liquid or gel electrolyte is filled inside the laminate 22. The electrolyte includes, for example, an electrolyte, a solvent, and an additive. Examples of the electrolyte include lithium salts such as lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6). Examples of the solvent and additive include carbonates such as ethylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, and vinylene carbonate. These are merely examples, and the electrolyte, solvent, and additive can be appropriately selected and modified.

[0031] When the target battery 10 is an all-solid-state battery, a solid electrolyte is placed within the laminate 22. Oxide-based electrolytes and sulfide-based electrolytes are known as solid electrolytes, and even all-solid-state batteries using other materials can be applied to the present disclosure. For example, the solid electrolyte of an all-solid-state battery is placed between the positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12 in place of the separator 13. In this case, the solid electrolyte not only functions as an electrolyte but also prevents short circuits between the positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12.

[0032] [2. Battery disposal method]

[0033] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a method of handling a battery.

[0034] In the cutting process S1, the target battery 10 is cut and processed into two or more cut pieces. The cut pieces may also be a plurality of broken pieces formed by crushing the target battery 10. In the cutting process S1, the laminate material 22 constituting the outer body of the target battery 10 is opened, and thus a process for inactivating the contents of the laminate material 22 is performed. The contents of the laminate material 22 refer to the materials constituting the stacked electrodes 21, and may include collector sheets 23A and 23B. The inactivation of the contents is carried out, for example, by bringing a sufficient amount of water or water vapor into contact with the contents of the laminate material 22. Specifically, methods such as immersing the cut target battery 10 in water, pouring water on the target battery 10, blowing water vapor on the target battery 10, and placing the target battery 10 in an environment containing a sufficient amount of water or water vapor may be cited. The temperature of the water or water vapor used for inactivation is preferably a temperature at which the material form (crystal structure, etc.) of the nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the contents of the target battery 10 does not change.

[0035] During the deactivation process of the target battery 10, at least a portion of the lithium contained in the target battery 10 is converted into a lithium compound such as lithium hydroxide, becoming readily soluble in water. Furthermore, ventilation, intake and exhaust, and neutralization treatments may be performed in response to the generation of hydrogen sulfide or other gases during deactivation.

[0036] After the cutting step S1, the dissolving step S2 is then performed. In the dissolving step S2, the water-soluble components contained in the cut pieces obtained by cutting in the cutting step S1 are dissolved in water. In the dissolving step S2, the broken pieces are brought into contact with a sufficient amount of water, for example, by putting or immersing the cut pieces in water, or by washing the broken pieces with water. As a result, the water-soluble components contained in the contents of the target battery 10 are dissolved into the water. The dissolving step S2 can also serve as a treatment for inactivating the contents of the target battery 10 in the cutting step S1. In the dissolving step S2, the inactivated lithium compound, electrolyte or solid electrolyte is dissolved in water, whereby the water becomes strongly alkaline. Through the dissolving step S2, the cut pieces become a mixture of solid and liquid.

[0037] In the screening step S3, the mixture containing water and crushed materials is sieved to capture solids larger than the mesh size. The solids that pass through the sieve correspond to the mixture obtained in the dissolution step S2, after relatively large solids have been removed. The solids removed by the sieve primarily consist of copper foil used for the negative electrode current collector 41, but also include aluminum plate and foil used for the positive electrode current collector 31, and fragments of the laminate 22.

[0038] Copper is recovered from the solid matter collected by the sieve in the screening step S3 by a copper recovery step (not shown). The remaining portion after the copper is recovered contains aluminum and NCM attached to the surface of the solid matter, and can be processed in the filtration step S4 together with the material that passed through the sieve in the screening step S3.

[0039] The passed material of the screening process S3 is filtered in the filtering process S4. In the filtering process S4, a filter material with a mesh finer than that of the sieve of the screening process S3 is used for filtering to capture solids. The solids captured in the filtering process S4 include fine particles, which are, for example, particles containing solid electrolytes, NCMs, and binders, and are a mixture. The solids captured in the filtering process S4 are referred to as the processing object M. The processing object M corresponds to an example of "a mixture from a battery" and "a passed material".

[0040] In a step (not shown), lithium is recovered from the liquid that has passed through the filter medium in the filtration step S4. For example, lithium can be recovered by a known method such as the Lithium Separation Method by Ionic Conductor (LiSMIC).

[0041] The treatment object M captured in the filtration step S4 is processed in the decomposition step S5. The decomposition step S5 is a step of decomposing the treatment object M by placing it in a treatment environment containing active oxygen species to decompose organic matter contained in the treatment object M. The organic matter decomposed in the decomposition step S5 is, for example, a binder.

[0042] The treatment object M treated in the decomposition step S5 is mixed with water and stirred in the water adding step S6 to form a slurry containing water, NCM, aluminum, and a trace amount of copper.

[0043] In the recovery step S7, NCM is recovered from the slurry. For example, in the recovery step S7, NCM particles in the slurry are recovered by magnetic force.

[0044] [3. Details of the decomposition process]

[0045] Here, the details of the disassembly step S5 will be described.

[0046] Figure 3 : is a figure which shows the structural example of the disassembling apparatus 60. The disassembling apparatus 60 is an example of the apparatus for performing the process of the disassembling step S5.

[0047] The decomposition device 60 includes a processing container 61 that accommodates the processing object M and processes the processing object M within the processing container 61. The decomposition device 60 includes an inlet pipe 64 and an exhaust pipe 66 connected to the processing container 61. The inlet pipe 64 is a pipe for introducing active oxygen species into the processing container 61. The processing object M processed by the decomposition device 60 may be in a state captured in the filtration step S4 or in a state where the moisture content has been reduced through dehydration or drying.

[0048] The introduction pipe 64 is connected to the active oxygen generator 71 via a transport pipe 72 , and is connected to the ozone generator 73 via a transport pipe 74 .

[0049] The active oxygen generator 71 is a device that generates active oxygen species that have the function of decomposing organic matter and sends it to the delivery pipe 72. In this embodiment, the active oxygen generator 71 generates O2 - (superoxide anion radicals) as active oxygen species. The active oxygen generator 71 uses a first gas as a material for generating active oxygen species. The first gas is a gas containing oxygen molecules (oxygen, air, etc.). For example, an oxygen concentrator may be provided in conjunction with the active oxygen generator 71. The oxygen concentrator supplies oxygen from the air and delivers the first gas containing a high concentration of oxygen to the active oxygen generator 71.

[0050] The active oxygen generator 71 includes, for example, an electron-emitting negative ion generating unit, an inlet for inflowing a first gas, and an outlet for outflowing ionized gas generated by applying a high voltage. The electron-emitting negative ion generating unit includes a cathode needle for applying a high voltage to the first gas. Electrons are emitted from the needle-shaped cathode needle toward the first gas to generate the ionized gas. A known electron-emitting negative ion generating unit can be used as the active oxygen generator 71. As such a unit, for example, units disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-153549, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-162932, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-199654, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-199655, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-325560, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-338743, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-56395, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-110312, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-319470, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-17218, or Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-5049 can be used.

[0051] The outflow port of the active oxygen generator 71 is connected to a transport pipe 72 , and the gas containing active oxygen species generated by the active oxygen generator 71 flows into the introduction pipe 64 through the transport pipe 72 .

[0052] The ozone generator 73 uses a second gas as a material for generating ozone. The second gas is a gas containing oxygen molecules (oxygen, air, etc.). For example, an oxygen concentrator can also be provided in the ozone generator 73 at the same time, and the oxygen concentrator supplies oxygen in the air to deliver the second gas containing a high concentration of oxygen to the ozone generator 73. The ozone generator 73 has an inlet for the inflow of the second gas, a discharge device for performing discharge inside the ozone generator 73, and an outlet for allowing the gas containing O3 (ozone) generated by the discharge to flow out. The discharge device performs silent discharge by applying a high voltage to the space filled with the second gas, thereby generating ozone from oxygen. The outflow port of the ozone generator 73 is connected to the delivery pipe 74, and the gas containing ozone generated by the ozone generator 73 flows into the inlet pipe 64 through the delivery pipe 74.

[0053] The superoxide anion radical supplied to the processing container 61 through the introduction pipe 64 is an example of “active oxygen species”, and the “active oxygen species” may include ozone.

[0054] The inlet pipe 64 is a hollow tube that allows gas to circulate. A delivery pipe 72 and a delivery pipe 74 are connected to one end of the inlet pipe 64, and the other end of the inlet pipe 64 communicates with the interior of the processing vessel 61. A flow rate adjustment unit 65 is provided within the inlet pipe 64. The flow rate adjustment unit 65 is, for example, a plate or flat plate with two or more holes perforated therein. The flow rate adjustment unit 65 reduces the flow rate of the gas flowing from the delivery pipes 72 and 74 into the inlet pipe 64 within the inlet pipe 64. As a result, the gas containing the active oxygen species generated by the active oxygen generator 71 and the gas containing ozone generated by the ozone generator 73 flow into the processing vessel 61 as low-speed airflows.

[0055] The processing container 61 is a hollow container, and inside the processing container 61 is a processing environment 62 for processing the processing object M. The processing container 61 is provided with a humidity control device 75 for adjusting the humidity of the processing environment 62 and a temperature control device 76 for adjusting the temperature of the processing environment 62 .

[0056] The humidity control device 75 maintains the humidity of the processing environment 62 at a predetermined humidity. For example, the humidity control device 75 supplies high-humidity air, water vapor, or water mist into the processing container 61. The humidity control device 75 includes a humidity sensor (not shown) that detects the humidity of the processing environment 62 and automatically adjusts the processing environment 62 to the predetermined humidity based on the humidity sensor's detection value. The humidity control device 75 can also be located within the processing container 61. For example, if the predetermined humidity of the processing environment 62 is 100%, a container containing water can be placed within the processing environment 62 as the humidity control device 75.

[0057] The temperature adjustment device 76 is a device that maintains the temperature of the processing environment 62 at a predetermined temperature. The temperature adjustment device 76 is, for example, a device that supplies warm air to the interior of the processing container 61. The temperature adjustment device 76 includes a temperature sensor (not shown) that detects the temperature of the processing environment 62, and automatically adjusts the processing environment 62 to a predetermined temperature based on the detection value of the temperature sensor. The temperature adjustment device 76 can also be arranged inside the processing container 61. For example, the temperature adjustment device 76 can also include a heater that is arranged inside the processing environment 62, and maintains the processing environment 62 at a predetermined temperature by controlling the power on and off of the heater. In this structure, in order to reduce temperature unevenness in the processing environment 62, a heater and a blower fan can also be provided in the processing environment 62.

[0058] The processing environment 62 is maintained at a predetermined temperature and humidity by the functions of the humidity control device 75 and the temperature control device 76. More preferably, the processing environment 62 is maintained at a predetermined temperature and humidity. Furthermore, the processing environment 62 is sufficiently filled with water molecules (H2O) supplied by the humidity control device 75.

[0059] A processing table 67 is disposed inside the processing container 61 to hold the processing object M. The processing table 67 may be, for example, a plate-shaped member capable of placing the processing object M, or may be a column, a rack, a leg, or other mechanical structure that holds a container containing the processing object M inside the processing container 61.

[0060] The processing station 67 includes a heating unit 68 that adjusts the temperature of the processing target object M to a predetermined temperature. The heating unit 68 is, for example, a heater that generates heat using electricity.

[0061] The processing station 67 preferably holds the processing object M at a position where the processing object M contacts the airflow flowing in from the introduction pipe 64. In this case, the active oxygen species generated by the airflow flowing in from the introduction pipe 64 can effectively decompose organic matter in the processing object M.

[0062] For example, Figure 3 As shown, a processing station 67 may be provided at a position opposite to the end of the introduction pipe 64. In this case, the airflow flowing into the processing environment 62 from the introduction pipe 64 quickly reaches the processing object M, and the surrounding area of ​​the processing object M becomes an atmosphere containing a large amount of active oxygen species.

[0063] In addition, the processing container 61 may also include a partition wall 69. The partition wall 69 is a plate-shaped or film-shaped member that separates the periphery of the processing table 67 inside the processing container 61 and surrounds at least the processing table 67 and the processing object M on the processing table 67. Figure 3In the embodiment, the partition wall 69 separates the interior of the processing container 61 by surrounding the end of the inlet pipe 64. The partition wall 69 is made of a breathable material. For example, the partition wall 69 may have holes that allow gas to flow, or may be made of non-woven fabric. In this structure, the active oxygen species that flow into the processing container 61 through the inlet pipe 64 remain around the processing object M, so that the processing object M can be processed more quickly. In addition, the moisture present in the processing environment 62 also enters the interior of the partition wall 69, so that the reaction involving water molecules can be fully carried out inside the partition wall 69 as described later.

[0064] The exhaust pipe 66 is a pipe that connects the inside and outside of the processing container 61 and discharges exhaust gas from the processing environment 62. In the structure where the decomposition device 60 has the partition wall 69, the exhaust pipe 66 is arranged so as to communicate with the inside of the partition wall 69.

[0065] The decomposition device 60 may include a control device (not shown). In this case, the heating unit 68, the active oxygen generator 71, the ozone generator 73, the humidity control device 75, and the temperature control device 76 can be controlled by the control device.

[0066] In the treatment environment 62, superoxide anion radicals generated by the active oxygen generator 71, ozone generated by the ozone generator 73, and water molecules react to generate OH (hydroxyl radicals) having strong oxidizing power. This reaction is presumably as follows.

[0067] First, in the active oxygen generation device 71, superoxide anion radicals are generated by the reaction of the following formula (1).

[0068] O2+e=·O2 - …(1)

[0069] In the treatment environment 62, superoxide anion radicals react with ozone as shown in the following formula (2) to generate O3 - (Ozone ion radical).

[0070] O2 - +O3=O2+·O3 - …(2)

[0071] Ozone ion radicals react with water molecules present in the treatment environment 62 as shown in the following formula (3) to generate hydroxyl radicals.

[0072] O3 - +H2O=·OH+O2+OH - …(3)

[0073] Hydroxyl radicals are highly reactive among active oxygen species and exhibit strong oxidizing power, effectively decomposing organic matter contained in the treatment object M. The organic matter contained in the treatment object M includes the binder and modified products derived from the binder. Modified products, for example, are generated by the reaction of sulfides contained in the electrolyte of the target battery 10 with the binder. Hydroxyl radicals oxidize and decompose C-H bonds, C-C bonds, C-O bonds, C-S bonds, and S-S bonds in organic matter.

[0074] In the processing environment 62, hydroxyl radicals are generated around the processing object M, thereby decomposing organic matter such as the binder contained in the processing object M. In particular, the decomposition device 60 generates hydroxyl radicals from superoxide anion radicals, ozone, and water in the processing environment 62 where the processing object M is located. Although hydroxyl radicals have a short lifespan, in the processing environment 62, newly generated hydroxyl radicals come into contact with the processing object M, effectively decomposing organic matter contained in the processing object M.

[0075] Furthermore, by decomposing organic matter contained in the treatment object M, NCM can be peeled from the aluminum foil used as the positive electrode current collector 31 of the target battery 10. In addition, the positive electrode composite material 32 fixed by the binder can be decomposed to a state where the NCM can be taken out.

[0076] The temperature of the processing environment 62 is preferably such that the crystal structure of the nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the positive electrode material 32 is not altered. The same applies to the temperature of the heating unit 68. For example, the temperature of the heating unit 68 is preferably 200°C or lower. Furthermore, the temperature of the processing environment 62 is lower than that of the heating unit 68.

[0077] As described above, the method described in this embodiment is a method for treating an object M comprising a mixture of the positive electrode active material of the target battery 10 and organic matter. This method places the object M in a treatment environment 62 adjusted to a predetermined temperature and humidity. Active oxygen species are then supplied to the treatment environment 62, causing water present in the treatment environment 62 to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, which are then used to decompose the organic matter.

[0078] Thus, hydroxyl radicals are generated in the processing environment 62 adjusted to a predetermined temperature and humidity, and organic matter contained in the processing object M can be efficiently decomposed. Therefore, the binder of the processing object M obtained from the used target battery 10 can be efficiently removed, and the positive electrode active material containing valuable metals can be recovered.

[0079] The treatment object M is a mixture obtained by decomposing the target battery 10 including the positive electrode mixture 32 , the electrolyte, and the negative electrode mixture 42 . The organic matter serves as a binder, and the positive electrode mixture 32 has a structure in which the positive electrode active material is bound by the binder.

[0080] Thus, by removing the binder from the mixture obtained by disassembling the used target battery 10 , the positive electrode active material can be recovered more efficiently.

[0081] The temperature of the processing environment 62 is a temperature that does not change the crystal structure of nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the positive electrode active material.

[0082] This allows the binder to be removed at a temperature that does not cause changes in the material form (crystal structure, etc.) of nickel, cobalt, and manganese, or oxidation, etc. Therefore, the recovered nickel, cobalt, and manganese can be easily reused as a positive electrode for a battery.

[0083] The aforementioned method for treating the target battery 10 includes a screening step S3 for separating relatively large solid matter from the cut pieces formed by cutting the contents of the target battery 10; and a decomposition step S5 for treating the remaining portion of the target battery 10 after the solid matter has been separated in the screening step S3 as the target battery M and decomposing the organic matter contained in the target battery M. The method also includes a recovery step S7 for recovering electrode material from the target battery M treated in the decomposition step S5. In the decomposition step S5, the target battery M is placed in a treatment environment 62 maintained at a predetermined temperature and humidity. Active oxygen species are supplied to the treatment environment 62, causing water present in the treatment environment 62 to react with the active oxygen species, generating hydroxyl radicals. The generated hydroxyl radicals then decompose the organic matter.

[0084] Thus, the used target battery 10 can be cut, and the binder can be efficiently removed from the remaining portion after relatively large solid matter has been removed, thereby efficiently recovering the positive electrode material containing valuable metals.

[0085] [4. Other Implementation Methods]

[0086] The above-described embodiment is merely one embodiment of the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0087] While the above embodiment describes an example of treating a target battery 10 having a ternary positive electrode material containing nickel, cobalt, and manganese, the battery treatment method disclosed herein is not limited thereto. The battery treatment method disclosed herein is applicable to batteries using materials containing any one or more of nickel, cobalt, and manganese, without further limitation.

[0088] In the above embodiment, the decomposition device 60 is described as the device for performing the decomposition step S5, but this is only an example. The decomposition step S5 can be performed in an environment that allows the object M to be placed in a treatment environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and humidity to react with the active oxygen species.

[0089] The shape of the target battery 10 described in the above embodiment is merely an example. The present disclosure can also be applied to cylindrical or rectangular batteries containing battery materials within an outer casing made of iron, aluminum, or the like. In other words, the present disclosure is applicable to lithium-ion batteries other than laminated batteries and all-solid-state batteries.

[0090] [5. Configurations Supported by the Above-mentioned Embodiments]

[0091] The above-mentioned embodiment supports the following configurations.

[0092] (Composition 1) A method for treating a mixture derived from a battery, wherein the mixture derived from a battery is a mixture of a positive electrode material of a battery containing any one or more of nickel, cobalt and manganese, and organic matter, wherein the method for treating the mixture derived from a battery places the mixture derived from a battery in a treatment environment adjusted to a specified temperature and a specified humidity, supplies active oxygen species to the treatment environment, thereby causing water present in the treatment environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, and utilizes the generated hydroxyl radicals to decompose the organic matter.

[0093] According to the method for treating a mixture derived from a battery according to configuration 1, hydroxyl radicals can be generated in a treatment environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and humidity, effectively decomposing organic matter contained in the mixture placed in the treatment environment. Therefore, the binder can be efficiently removed from the mixture obtained from used batteries, and the positive electrode material containing valuable metals can be recovered.

[0094] (Composition 2) A method for processing a mixture from a battery as described in Composition 1, wherein the above-mentioned mixture from a battery is a mixture obtained by decomposing a battery having a positive electrode, an electrolyte and a negative electrode, the above-mentioned positive electrode has a structure in which the above-mentioned positive electrode material is combined with a binder, and the above-mentioned organic matter is the binder.

[0095] According to the method for processing a battery-derived mixture of Configuration 2, the positive electrode material can be recovered more efficiently by removing the binder from the mixture obtained by disassembling the used battery.

[0096] (Configuration 3) The method for treating a mixture from a battery according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein the temperature of the treatment environment is a temperature that does not change the crystal structure of nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the positive electrode material.

[0097] According to the method for processing the battery-derived mixture of configuration 3, the binder can be removed at a temperature that does not cause changes in the material form (crystal structure, etc.) or oxidation of the nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the positive electrode material. Therefore, the recovered nickel, cobalt, and manganese can be easily reused as a positive electrode of a battery.

[0098] (Composition 4) A battery processing method, which uses a lithium-ion battery or an all-solid-state battery having an electrode material containing any one or more of nickel, cobalt and manganese as the target battery, wherein the battery processing method includes: a screening step of separating relatively large solid matter from cut pieces formed by cutting the contents of the target battery; a decomposition step of using the remaining portion of the solid matter separated in the screening step as the processing target, and decomposing organic matter contained in the processing target; and a recovery step of recovering the electrode material from the processed material processed in the decomposition step, wherein in the decomposition step, the processing target is placed in a processing environment adjusted to a specified temperature and a specified humidity, and active oxygen species are supplied to the processing environment, thereby causing water present in the processing environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, and utilizing the generated hydroxyl radicals to decompose the organic matter.

[0099] According to the battery treatment method of configuration 4, hydroxyl radicals can be generated in a treatment environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and humidity, effectively decomposing organic matter contained in an object to be treated placed in the treatment environment. Therefore, the binder can be efficiently removed from the mixture obtained from used batteries, and the positive electrode material containing valuable metals can be recovered.

[0100] Explanation of symbols

[0101] 10…target battery, 11…positive electrode plate, 12…negative electrode plate, 13…separator, 21…laminated electrode, 22…laminated material, 32…positive electrode composite, 42…negative electrode composite, 60…decomposition device, 61…processing container, 62…processing environment, 64…introduction pipe, 65…flow rate adjustment unit, 66…exhaust pipe, 67…processing table, 68…heating unit, 69…partition wall, 71…active oxygen generator, 72, 74…transport pipe, 73…ozone generator, 75…humidity adjustment unit, 76…temperature adjustment unit, M…processing object.

Claims

1. A method for treating a mixture derived from a battery, wherein the mixture comprises a positive electrode material of a battery containing at least one of nickel, cobalt and manganese and an organic substance, wherein: The method for treating a mixture derived from a battery comprises placing the mixture derived from a battery in a treatment environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and a predetermined humidity. supplying active oxygen species to the processing environment, thereby causing water present in the processing environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, The generated hydroxyl radicals are used to decompose the organic matter.

2. The method for treating a mixture from a battery according to claim 1, wherein: The battery-derived mixture is a mixture obtained by decomposing a battery having a positive electrode, an electrolyte, and a negative electrode. The positive electrode has a structure in which the positive electrode materials are bound together by a binder, and the organic substance serves as the binder.

3. The method for treating a mixture from a battery according to claim 1, wherein: The temperature of the treatment environment is a temperature that does not change the crystal structure of nickel, cobalt, and manganese contained in the positive electrode material.

4. A method for treating a battery, wherein the target battery is a lithium-ion battery or an all-solid-state battery having an electrode material containing at least one of nickel, cobalt, and manganese, wherein: The battery processing method includes: a screening step of separating relatively large solid matter from cut pieces obtained by cutting the contents of the target battery; a decomposition step of using the remaining portion of the solid matter separated in the screening step as a treatment object and decomposing organic matter contained in the treatment object; and a recovery step of recovering the electrode material from the processed product processed in the decomposition step; In the decomposition process, The object to be processed is placed in a processing environment adjusted to a predetermined temperature and a predetermined humidity, supplying active oxygen species to the processing environment, thereby causing water present in the processing environment to react with the active oxygen species to generate hydroxyl radicals, The generated hydroxyl radicals are used to decompose the organic matter.

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