BATTERY PROCESSING PROCESS AND BATTERY PROCESSING SYSTEM

Abstract

[Problem] Provision of a battery processing method and battery processing system that can efficiently collect lithium from a lithium-ion battery. [Solution] The invention provides a battery processing method for processing a lithium-ion battery comprising a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, configured by laminating the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material in a lamination direction. The battery processing method includes: a structural modification step for charging / discharging the lithium-ion battery to effect a structural modification of a surface of an active material of the negative electrode; and a lithium deposition step for charging / discharging the lithium-ion battery to deposit lithium onto the negative electrode material.

Description

[TECHNICAL FIELD]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery processing method and a battery processing system. [STATE OF THE ART]

[0002] In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have been widely used as vehicle batteries in electrically powered vehicles such as electric and hybrid vehicles. Lithium-ion batteries contain valuable materials, including lithium. There is a growing demand to recycle these valuable materials from used lithium-ion batteries for material recovery.

[0003] Patent literature 1 discloses a method for increasing the amount of lithium contained in a positive electrode material by discharging the used lithium-ion battery in order to collect lithium from the positive electrode material. [SOURCE REFERENCE][Patent Literature]

[0004] [Patent literature 1] JP 2022 - 049 831 A [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION][Technical Problem]

[0005] The positive electrode material is generally configured by forming a positive electrode active material on a current collector foil, such as aluminum. In the case of a ternary system (NMC), the positive electrode active materials include, for example, valuable elements such as nickel, manganese, and cobalt. To collect the valuable elements from the positive electrode active material, the positive electrode material is roasted and pulverized along with a reducing agent, and then a black mass or similar substance containing the positive electrode active material is selected. This black mass is then subjected to stepwise solvent extraction to successively extract manganese, cobalt, and nickel, and finally, lithium. Therefore, lithium extraction, in particular, is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

[0006] One object of the invention is to provide a battery processing method and a battery processing system with which lithium can be efficiently collected from a lithium-ion battery.

[0007] Another object of the invention is to provide a battery processing method and a battery processing system with which a lithium-ion battery can be prepared for the efficient recovery of lithium from the lithium-ion battery.

[0008] These problems are solved by the independent claims. Specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0009] One aspect of the invention is A battery processing method for processing a lithium-ion battery comprising a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, configured by laminating the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material in a lamination direction, wherein the battery processing method includes: a structural modification step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to effect a structural change, in particular of a surface of the active material of the negative electrode; and a lithium deposition step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material.

[0010] In other words, the lithium-ion battery can include a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material are laminated in a lamination direction.

[0011] Another aspect of the invention is a battery processing system for processing a lithium-ion battery, which includes a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the battery processing system includes: a pressing device that presses at least one section of the lithium-ion battery; and a charging and / or discharging device that charges and / or discharges the lithium-ion battery. In other words, another aspect of the invention may relate to a battery processing system for processing a lithium-ion battery, which includes a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the battery processing system comprises: a pressing device configured to press only or at least one section of the lithium-ion battery; and a charging and / or discharging device configured to charge and / or discharge the lithium-ion battery.

[0012] The positive electrode material and the negative electrode material can be laminated, in particular in one lamination direction. [Advantageous effects of the invention]

[0013] According to the invention, lithium can be efficiently collected from a negative electrode of the lithium-ion battery. [BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS] [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram that schematically illustrates a reuse system according to a first embodiment. [ Fig. 2] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a schematic configuration of a lithium-ion battery. [ Fig. 3] Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a battery cell. [ Fig. 4] Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart that schematically illustrates the process of reusing the lithium-ion battery. [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a charging rate and the ease of lithium deposition with respect to the SOC at each cooling temperature. [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 is a diagram that schematically illustrates the impulse charge. [ Fig. 7] Fig. Figure 7 is a block diagram that schematically illustrates a reuse system according to a third embodiment. [ Fig. 8] Fig. Figure 8 is a view illustrating a schematic configuration of a press device. [ Fig. 9] Fig. Figure 9 is a flowchart that schematically illustrates a reuse process according to a fourth embodiment. [ Fig. 10A] Fig. Figure 10A is a view that schematically illustrates an example of the operation of the press device. [ Fig. 10B] Fig. 10B is a view that shows the example of the operation of the press device following Fig. 8A schematically illustrated. [ Fig. 11A] Fig. Figure 11A is a view that schematically illustrates another example of the operation of the press device. [ Fig. 11B] Fig. 11B is a view that shows the other example of the operation of the press device following Fig. 9A schematically illustrated. [ Fig. 11C] Fig. 11C is a view that shows the other example of the operation of the press device following Fig. 9B schematically illustrated. [DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS]

[0014] The inventors of the present invention have conducted intensive investigations to efficiently collect lithium from a lithium-ion battery and have discovered that lithium can be efficiently collected by intentionally generating lithium deposits (e.g., dendrites) on a negative electrode material, which are undesirable during a normal charging reaction. Based on this finding, the inventors have developed a battery processing method and a battery processing system with which lithium can be efficiently collected from the lithium-ion battery.

[0015] A method for reusing a lithium-ion battery according to an embodiment of the invention is A battery processing method for processing a lithium-ion battery comprising a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, configured by laminating the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material in a lamination direction, wherein the battery processing method includes: a lithium deposition step for charging the lithium-ion battery, in order to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material; a battery disassembly step in which only or at least the negative electrode material is removed from the lithium-ion battery; and a lithium extraction step to extract lithium, especially from the negative electrode material. [First embodiment]

[0016] The following describes a reuse system for a lithium-ion battery according to a first embodiment of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0017] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram that schematically illustrates a reuse system 100 of a lithium-ion battery 1. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, the reuse system 100 can include: a reuse unit 10 that uses the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular on a secondary basis, which, for example, was used primarily in an electric vehicle; and a recycling unit 20 that collects lithium from the lithium-ion battery 1, which was used, in particular, on a secondary basis.

[0018] The reuse unit 10 can reuse the lithium-ion battery 1 that was primarily used, for example as an electrical storage device.

[0019] In general, a deteriorated condition of the lithium-ion battery, for example for the electric vehicle, is determined based on the state of health (SOH), which indicates, for example, how much capacity is available compared to a new battery when the battery is fully charged.

[0020] If, due to the degree of deterioration, it is determined that the lithium-ion battery 1 is unsuitable for use in the electric vehicle, it can be removed from its primary use, such as the vehicle, and can be used in the reuse unit 10, in particular as an electrical storage device, especially for any of various secondary applications, such as for storing renewable energy, including solar and wind energy, and / or as an emergency power source, for example in the event of a disaster.

[0021] If the SOH is, for example, 70% or less, it can be determined that it is unsuitable for primary use, i.e., for use in the electric vehicle.

[0022] The reuse unit 10 can include the lithium-ion battery 1, which can be used secondarily, in particular, as an electrical storage device, and / or a charging device 12.

[0023] The charging device 12 is configured to charge and / or discharge the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular in any suitable charging pattern, for example by setting a voltage and / or a current. The charging device 12 may also be referred to herein as a charging and / or discharging device.

[0024] For example, the lithium-ion battery 1 can be continuously charged, in particular with a predetermined voltage and / or current, and can also be intermittently charged, in particular with the predetermined voltage and / or current (also referred to as pulse charging). An upper limit of the charging voltage imposed by the charging device 12 may be a voltage rating of the lithium-ion battery 1 or less, and may be, for example, 4.3 V or less.

[0025] The reuse unit 10 can further include a cooling device 201 which is capable of cooling the lithium-ion battery 1.

[0026] The cooling device 201 is not restricted and can be a cooling device of any suitable type.

[0027] In a particular embodiment, a thermostat bath is used as the cooling device 201. In other words, the cooling device 201 can include or be a thermostat bath.

[0028] For example, the cooling device 201 can be configured as a cooling chamber whose interior can be cooled, and the lithium-ion battery 1 can be cooled by placing the lithium-ion battery 1 in the cooling chamber. In other words, the cooling device 201, and in particular the thermostat bath, can comprise or form a cooling chamber. Inside the cooling chamber, the lithium-ion battery, and in particular a battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, can be arranged or positioned for cooling the lithium-ion battery 1 or the battery cell 3. In yet another sense, the cooling chamber can be configured to accommodate the lithium-ion battery 1, and in particular a battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, for cooling the lithium-ion battery 1 or the battery cell 3.

[0029] The recycling unit 20 may include: a disassembly device 21 that disassembles the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular by means of a lithium deposition step as described in particular below, especially into a positive electrode material 31, a negative electrode material 35 and / or the like, or is configured for this purpose, for example if, based on the SOH, it is determined that the lithium-ion battery 1 may be unsuitable for secondary use; an extraction device 22 that extracts lithium, in particular from the negative electrode material 35, after disassembly, or is configured for this purpose; and a collection device 23 that collects (extracted) lithium or is configured for this purpose.

[0030] If the SOH is, for example, 40% or less, it can be determined that the product is unsuitable for secondary use.

[0031] Fig. Figure 2 schematically illustrates the lithium-ion battery 1 that can be installed in the electric vehicle. The lithium-ion battery 1 can form a battery pack with battery modules 4, each of which includes functions such as a charging / discharging circuit, cooling mechanism, and / or the like.

[0032] Furthermore, the multiple battery modules 4 can be connected to each other and can be housed in a casing.

[0033] Each of the battery modules 4 is formed by connecting several battery cells 3 in series or parallel and is set to the desired capacity and / or a desired voltage.

[0034] The lithium-ion battery 1 can be a rechargeable lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0035] In this patent specification, the term “lithium-ion battery” may refer collectively to the battery cell, the battery module and the battery pack, unless otherwise specified.

[0036] Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view that schematically illustrates battery cell 3.

[0037] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 3, the battery cell 3 according to the present embodiment can be of the laminated type (stacked type).

[0038] The battery cell 3 can include: a laminated electrode body 38 in which the positive electrode material 31, a separator 34 and the negative electrode material 35 are laminated in that order in a lamination direction A; and a housing 40 that can accommodate the laminated electrode body 38.

[0039] In a particular embodiment, the laminated electrode body 38 can be formed by laminating several sets of the positive electrode material 31, the separator 34 and the negative electrode material 35 in lamination direction A.

[0040] The laminated electrode body 38 can be in an end section (left side in Fig. 3) include a positive electrode current collector end section 32a in which several positive electrode current collectors 32, for example in a lateral direction B (a left-right direction in Fig. 3) in particular, they may be connected orthogonally to the lamination direction A, and in particular in the other end section (right side in Fig. 3) include a negative electrode current collector end section 36a in which several negative electrode current collectors 36 may be connected.

[0041] The battery cell 3 can have a rectangular shape, which is thin and, when viewed in the lamination direction A, can be particularly long in the width direction B.

[0042] The positive electrode material 31 can include a positive electrode current collector 32 and an active material 33 of the positive electrode, which is laminated onto a surface of the positive electrode current collector 32 facing the separator 34.

[0043] In the positive electrode current collector end section 32a, the several positive electrode current collectors 32 can be connected in the one end section (left side in Fig. 3) be connected to each other, for example in the lateral direction B, which is in particular orthogonal to the lamination direction.

[0044] For one or more or each of the positive electrode current collectors 32, a metal foil suitable for a positive electrode can be used in a suitable manner.

[0045] The active material 33 of the positive electrode can be a material that is used as the active material of the positive electrode of the lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0046] In the present embodiment, one or more or each of the positive electrode current collectors 32 can be made of aluminium, and / or the active material 33 of the negative electrode is made of NMC (nickel, manganese and cobalt).

[0047] The negative electrode material 35 can include a negative electrode current collector 36 and an active material 37 of the negative electrode, which is laminated onto a surface of the negative electrode current collector 36 facing the separator 34.

[0048] In the negative electrode current collector end section 36a, the multiple negative electrode current collectors 36 in the other end section (right side in Fig. 3) be connected to each other, for example in the lateral direction B.

[0049] For one or more or each of the negative electrode current collectors 36, a metal foil suitable for a negative electrode can be used in a suitable manner.

[0050] For the active material 37 of the negative electrode, a material can be used that is used as the active material of the negative electrode of the lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0051] In a particular embodiment, one or more or each of the negative electrode current collectors 36 may be made of copper, and / or the active material 37 of the negative electrode is a carbon material (graphite) having a layered structure.

[0052] The active material 33 of the positive electrode and the active material 37 of the negative electrode can each contain an electrolyte solution 39.

[0053] For example, electrolyte solution 39 is an organic solvent in which lithium ions can move.

[0054] In a particular embodiment, the electrolyte solution 39 can contain dimethyl carbonate (DMC), ethylene carbonate (EC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC), particularly in a volume ratio of 1:1:1, and can contain lithium hexafluoride phosphate (LiPF6), particularly at a concentration of 1 mol / l.

[0055] The separator 34 can be arranged between the positive electrode material 31 and the negative electrode material 35 and separates them, in particular physically and / or electrically, from each other.

[0056] The separator 34 can be a porous body, in particular with several tiny pores through which the lithium ions can pass.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the separator 34 can be a porous film, which is in particular made of polyolefin.

[0058] The housing 40 can include a first housing 41 and a second housing 42, which are provided as a pair on both sides of the laminated electrode body 38, particularly in lamination direction A.

[0059] The first housing 41 and / or the second housing 42 can each be shaped to have a hat-shaped cross-section.

[0060] The first housing 41 can include: a pair of flange sections 41a located at both ends in the width direction B; and a body section 41b located between the pair of flange sections 41a and in particular bulging away from the second housing 42 in a direction, especially in the lamination direction A.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, the second housing 42 can similarly include a pair of flange sections 42a and a body section 42b, which in particular curves away from the first housing 41 in one direction.

[0062] The first housing 41 and the second housing 42 can be joined together in a state in which the positive electrode current collector end section 32a and the negative electrode current collector end section 36a are sandwiched between the flange sections 41a, 42a, and can thereby form the housing 40.

[0063] That is, in a state in which the laminated electrode body 38 is housed in the housing 40, the end section 32a of the positive electrode current collector and the end section 36a of the negative electrode current collector can be enclosed between the paired flange sections 41a, 42a, and a residual section of the laminated electrode body 38 can be housed in a space defined between the paired body sections 41b, 42b.

[0064] When housed in the casing 40, the laminated electrode body 38 can be crimped by the paired body sections 41b, 42b, in particular with a predetermined pressure in the lamination direction A.

[0065] An example of a tap 43 according to the invention is formed by a section which is sandwiched between the pair of flange sections 41a, 42a in the battery cell 3.

[0066] Next, the reuse of the lithium-ion battery 1 will be described.

[0067] Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart that schematically illustrates the process of reusing the lithium-ion battery 1.

[0068] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 4, if it is determined, for example based on the SOH, that the lithium-ion battery 1, which may be installed in the electric vehicle, is in a deteriorated state that is not suitable for primary use, such as use in the electric vehicle, a reuse step (step S1) can be carried out.

[0069] In the reuse step S1, the lithium-ion battery 1 is removed from its primary use, for example the electric vehicle, and can be used secondarily in the reuse unit 10.

[0070] If it is determined that the lithium-ion battery 1 is in a predetermined deteriorated state, particularly after secondary use, especially as an electrical storage device, a structural modification step (step S2) can be carried out, particularly after secondary use in the reuse unit 10.

[0071] In the structural modification step S2, the lithium-ion battery 1 is charged and / or discharged in order to effect a structural change, in particular of a surface of the active material of the negative electrode.

[0072] In the structural modification step S2, the structure of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode can be changed by applying a current that, in particular, exceeds a nominal current.

[0073] The current can be, for example, approximately 1.1 times or more, approximately 1.5 times or more, or approximately twice or more of the rated current.

[0074] The change in the structure of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode can consist of breaking up a layered structure or a honeycomb structure of a surface layer made of, for example, graphite.

[0075] Without being limited to this, in a case where, for example, graphite is the material for the active material of the negative electrode, the change in the structure of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode may consist of breaking up a layered structure or a honeycomb structure of a surface layer of graphite.

[0076] The structural change of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode can be detected and can be recognized, for example, by observing a change in the shape and / or structure of the particle surface of the active material in the active material of the negative electrode.

[0077] The structural change of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode can be detected, for example, by observing a change in the shape of a particle surface of the active material from an electrode surface, in particular using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and / or a transmission electron microscope (TEM), and / or by observing a change in shape and / or structure of the particle surface of the active material, in particular from a cross-section of an electrode, in particular an electrode of the lithium-ion battery 1 or a battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, for example using a scanning electron microscope with focused ion beam processing (FIB-SEM) and / or the transmission electron microscope (TEM).

[0078] If the active material of the negative electrode is graphite, this can be detected by analyzing a chemical change in the state of the carbon atoms that make up graphite using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and / or X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS, XAFS) and / or by analyzing a change in the crystal structure of the graphite using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and / or electron diffraction.

[0079] In the structural change step S2, pulse charging is preferably used for intermittent charging.

[0080] More precisely, the pulse charging in the structural change step S2 can include a charging phase, in which charging is carried out to effect the structural change of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode, and a discharging phase, and these can be repeated several times.

[0081] The lithium deposition step (step S3) can be carried out.

[0082] In the lithium deposition step S3, lithium is deposited particularly on the negative electrode material 35.

[0083] In lithium deposition step S3, the lithium-ion battery 1 can be charged to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material 35.

[0084] Since the surface structure of the active material of the negative electrode is altered by the structural modification step S2 described above, lithium is preferentially deposited on a section whose structure has been modified. This facilitates subsequent lithium collection.

[0085] In the lithium deposition step S3, the lithium-ion battery 1 is preferably charged, in particular under cooling, for example by the cooling device 201, and in particular under a predetermined cooling condition.

[0086] Here, a diagram illustrates in Fig. 5 a relationship between a charging rate (charging current) at which lithium deposition begins and the state of charge (SOC) as a function of temperature.

[0087] More precisely, if charging takes place at any temperature along a curve or in a range above the curve, lithium is readily deposited on the negative electrode material 35.

[0088] The SOC is an indicator that specifies the state of charge of the battery, or in other words, the state of charge of the lithium-ion battery 1, and indicates the battery capacity when a fully charged state is set as 100% and a fully discharged state as 0%.

[0089] As in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates that lithium is more likely to be deposited when the SOC of the lithium-ion battery 1 increases and / or when its temperature decreases.

[0090] Thus, in the lithium deposition step S3, the lithium-ion battery 1 is charged, in particular with the charging rate suitable for the cooling temperature, in which lithium is deposited, in particular, on the negative electrode material 35.

[0091] Preferably, the lithium-ion battery 1 is charged under a charging condition in which the deposition of lithium on the negative electrode material 35 begins. In other words, the lithium-ion battery 1 can be charged with a predetermined charging condition and / or a predetermined current configured to deposit lithium, particularly on the negative electrode material 35, or to initiate its deposition.

[0092] For example, by cooling the lithium-ion battery 1, lithium can be deposited on the negative electrode material 35 even when the charging rate is reduced to a low value.

[0093] In the lithium deposition step S3, pulse charging for intermittent charging is preferably used as the charging process.

[0094] More precisely, as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 6, pulse charging can include: a charging phase Fc, in which charging is carried out to deposit lithium; and a charging pause phase Fs, in which charging is interrupted, and these can be repeated several times.

[0095] At least the charging phase Fc can be performed several times.

[0096] Cooling by the cooling device 201 can only take place during the charging phase Fc and cannot take place during the charging pause phase Fs.

[0097] Since lithium is deposited particularly on the negative electrode material 35, lithium ions that are present in the vicinity of the active material of the negative electrode 37 (at least in an area next to the active material of the negative electrode) are reduced.

[0098] This reduces the lithium ion concentration near the active material 37 of the negative electrode.

[0099] Accordingly, even with continued charging, it is difficult to effectively deposit lithium on the negative electrode material 35.

[0100] Thus, according to a particular embodiment, the lithium ions around the active material 37 of the negative electrode tend to accumulate near the active material 37 of the negative electrode during the pause phase Fs of the pulse charge, and a reduction in the lithium ion concentration near the active material 37 of the negative electrode can be mitigated.

[0101] Therefore, lithium can be effectively deposited, especially on the negative electrode material 35, by carrying out the charging phase Fc, particularly after the reduction in lithium ion concentration has been mitigated.

[0102] Subsequently, the lithium-ion battery 1 can be removed from the reuse unit 10 and a battery disassembly step (step S4) can be carried out, in particular by the disassembly device 21.

[0103] In the battery disassembly step S4, the lithium-ion battery 1 is disassembled, in particular into components such as the positive electrode material 31, the separator 34, the negative electrode material 35 and / or the housing 40.

[0104] If the sole purpose is lithium collection, then at least the negative electrode material 35 can be dismantled. In other words, if the primary purpose is lithium collection, then only or at least the negative electrode material 35 can be dismantled.

[0105] The disassembly device 21 can be any suitable device that automatically disassembles the lithium-ion battery 1 or is configured for this purpose.

[0106] The lithium-ion battery 1 can be manually removed using a tool or the like, in particular without using the removal device 21.

[0107] Next, a lithium extraction step (step S5) can be performed.

[0108] In the lithium extraction step S5, lithium is extracted in particular from the dismantled negative electrode material 35.

[0109] In the lithium extraction step S5, particularly after the negative electrode material 35 has been separated with water, which can then be filtered, the extraction device 22 can remove the negative electrode current collector 36 and / or the active material 37 of the negative electrode from the negative electrode material 35 and can thereby extract an aqueous solution which contains in particular the lithium ions.

[0110] Finally, a lithium collection step (step S6) can be performed.

[0111] In the lithium collection step S6, lithium is collected, in particular, from the aqueous solution containing the lithium ions.

[0112] In lithium collection step S6, especially after the lithium has been subjected to solution treatment with, for example, carbonated water, the collection device 23 can filter the solution and can collect lithium, for example, as lithium carbonate.

[0113] That is to say, the battery processing method according to the present embodiment is the battery processing method for processing the lithium-ion battery, which includes the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material, wherein the battery processing method includes the following: the structural modification step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to effect the structural modification, in particular of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode; and the lithium deposition step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material.

[0114] Furthermore, the reuse system (the battery processing system) 100 according to the present embodiment the battery processing system for processing the lithium-ion battery, including the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material, wherein the battery processing system includes the following: a pressing device that presses at least or only one section of the lithium-ion battery or is configured for this purpose; and a charging and / or discharging device that charges and / or discharges the lithium-ion battery.

[0115] In the foregoing embodiment, the type of lithium-ion battery 1 is not particularly limited.

[0116] However, the lithium-ion battery 1 is preferably of the capacitive type (also known as the energy type) and not of the high-performance type (also known as the power type).

[0117] In the capacitive type lithium-ion battery, the density of the active material 37 of the negative electrode is higher than in the high-performance type lithium-ion battery.

[0118] Accordingly, it is difficult to extract lithium that is deposited in the active material 37 of the negative electrode, for example between graphite layers.

[0119] Since the method of the present disclosure involves, in particular, a structural change to the surface of the active material of the negative electrode in order to selectively deposit lithium, the deposition of lithium between the graphite layers can be reduced. This improves the efficiency of lithium collection. That is to say, if the lithium-ion battery 1 is of the capacitive type, the functional effects of the invention are achieved even more effectively in a suitable manner.

[0120] In the present patent specification, the high-performance lithium-ion battery 1 refers to a case in which its power density is approximately 4000 kW / l or more.

[0121] In contrast, the lithium-ion battery 1 of the capacitive type refers to a case in which its energy density is approximately 600 Wh / l or more.

[0122] In the embodiment described above, the case in which the structural modification step S2 is carried out, in particular, after the lithium-ion battery 1 has been provided in the form of the battery pack for the reuse step S1 has been described as an example.

[0123] However, the invention is not limited thereto. The lithium-ion battery 1, in the form of the battery module 4 or the battery cell 3, can be subjected to the reuse step S1 and / or the structural modification step S2. [Second embodiment]

[0124] A second embodiment differs in particular in that a second structural modification step S12 (see Fig. 4) is applied instead of the structural modification step S2 according to the first embodiment.

[0125] In the second structural change step S12, building on the structural change step S2, the lithium-ion battery 1 is further pressed, particularly during charging, especially under a predetermined pressing condition, particularly in lamination direction A.

[0126] Fig. Figure 7 is a block diagram that schematically illustrates a reuse system 300 according to the second embodiment.

[0127] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the reuse system 300 differs from the reuse system 100 according to the first embodiment in that the lithium-ion battery 1 in the form of the battery cell 3 is provided to the reuse unit 10 and that the reuse unit 10 in particular includes a pressing device 301 which presses the battery cell 3 in particular in the lamination direction A.

[0128] The pressing device 301 is a device that presses the battery cell 3, in particular with a predetermined pressing force, especially in the lamination direction A.

[0129] To generate a charging and / or discharging reaction in the lithium-ion battery 1, the press device 301 can be provided in particular to the lithium-ion battery 1 that was used primarily, for example, in the electric vehicle, and / or can be provided to the lithium-ion battery 1 that was used secondarily, for example, in the reuse unit 10.

[0130] Alternatively, a separate pressing device can be provided which, for example, can automatically or manually adjust a pressing force.

[0131] Fig. Figure 8 is a view that schematically illustrates the press device 301.

[0132] Fig. Figure 8 schematically illustrates the battery cell 3, which is pressed by the pressing device 301.

[0133] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 8, the pressing device 301 can include several sets of pressing pairs 302, one or more of which or each set is provided as a pair on both sides of the battery cell 3, in particular in the lamination direction A, and which can be subdivided or separated, in particular in the width direction B of the battery cell 3.

[0134] In a particular embodiment, there is a central press pair 302A, located in the middle, particularly in the width direction B, and a press pair 302B located on one side (left side). Fig. 8) in particular in the lateral direction B, and a press pair 302C located on the other side, which is on the other side (right side in Fig. 8) in particular in the latitudinal direction B.

[0135] In other words, the multiple sets of press pairs 302 can include one or more, two or more, or three or more of a central press pair 302A configured to press a central section 3a of the lithium battery 1, and in particular to press a central section 3a of the battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, especially in the lateral direction B; a press pair 302B located on one side, configured to press a side section 3b of the lithium-ion battery 1, and in particular to press a side section 3b of the battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, especially in the lateral direction; and a press pair 302C located on the other side, configured to press another side section 3c of the lithium-ion battery 1, and in particular to press another side section 3c of the battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, especially in the lateral direction.The press pairs 302 can be configured to press (only) a section of the lithium-ion battery 1, and in particular to press (only) a section of battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1. The section to be pressed by the respective press pair 302 can correspond to a position of the respective press pair 302, in particular in the width direction. Thus, the lithium-ion battery 1, and in particular battery cell 3, can be locally pressed by a portion of the press pairs 302.

[0136] The press pairs 302 are not limited to three and can be subdivided into two, four or more.

[0137] In the second structural change step S12, the battery cell 3 is charged in particular in a state in which the battery cell 3 is pressed in particular locally, for example by actuating at least or only some press pairs 302 of the several sets of press pairs 302.

[0138] Accordingly, in the second structural modification step S12, battery cell 3 is charged by increasing the pressing force, particularly in the lamination direction A, on at least or only one section of it such that it is greater than the force applied to the remaining section. In other words, in the second structural modification step S12, battery cell 3 can be charged by increasing the pressing force on at least or only one section of the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular on at least or only one section of battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1. In the section of the lithium-ion battery 1 or in the section of battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1 where the pressing force is increased, the pressing force can be greater than in the remaining section, that is, the section of the lithium-ion battery 1 or the lithium-ion battery cell 3 where the pressing force is not increased.The section of the lithium-ion battery 1 or the section of the battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1, where no pressing force is increased, in particular by the pressing pairs 302, is referred to in particular as the residual section.

[0139] In the second structural change step S12, the battery cell 3 is pressed, in particular, with such a pressing force that the structural change, especially of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode, causes at least the charging and / or discharging reaction.

[0140] For example, the pressing force is approximately 10 kPa or more and approximately 1 MPa or less.

[0141] This results in the pressing force being increased on at least one section of the lithium-ion battery 1 during charging.

[0142] In this way, the structural change of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode can be accelerated, particularly in the negative electrode material 35, which corresponds to such a section.

[0143] This allows lithium to be easily and locally deposited in the subsequent lithium deposition step.

[0144] For example, lithium can be deposited on the entire surface of the negative electrode material 35, for example by charging, especially during the sequential change of the location where the pressing force is increased.

[0145] Furthermore, by increasing the pressing force in a section where the electrolyte solution remains, lithium can be efficiently deposited in that section.

[0146] “Increasing the pressing force in lamination direction A on at least one section thereof so that it is greater than that on the remaining section” can also mean that the pressing force in the remaining section is reduced, especially in a state in which the entire battery cell 3 is pressed uniformly.

[0147] For example, the second structural modification step S12 may include the fact that the pressing of the lithium-ion battery 1, which can be used secondarily in the reuse unit 10, is at least partially or only partially reduced or eliminated, i.e., that it can be pressed completely and / or uniformly.

[0148] As described above, in a case where the second structural modification step S12 is carried out, in particular using the press device provided in the secondary lithium-ion battery 1, it is possible to carry out the work efficiently without requiring time and effort for the attachment, compared to a case where a third structural modification step S13 is carried out, in particular by separately attaching the press device to the lithium-ion battery 1.

[0149] In the second structural modification step S12, the lithium-ion battery 1 must only be charged in its compressed state.

[0150] The pressing of the lithium-ion battery 1 by the pressing device 301 and the charging of the lithium-ion battery 1 by the charging device 12 can be started simultaneously, or one of them can be started first.

[0151] In the lithium extraction step S5, lithium is preferably extracted from the negative electrode material 35, on which lithium was locally deposited, in particular in the second structural modification step S12, especially from the disassembled negative electrode material(s) 35.

[0152] This means that lithium can be selectively extracted, in particular, from the section of the negative electrode material 35 that may correspond to the section that was pressed in the second structural modification step S12.

[0153] Which section of the multiple negative electrode materials 35 corresponds to the section described above can be visually identified and / or can be identified based on the section that was pressed in the second structural modification step S12. This allows for even more efficient lithium extraction.

[0154] In the foregoing embodiment, the case in which the press pair 302 is divided in the width direction B of the battery cell 3 has been described as an example.

[0155] However, it can also be subdivided in a vertical direction C that is orthogonal to the lamination direction A and / or to the latitude direction B of the battery cell 3, or it can be further subdivided in both latitude direction B and vertical direction C. [Third embodiment]

[0156] A third embodiment differs in particular in that the third structural modification step S13 (see Fig. 4) is applied instead of the structural modification step S2 according to the first embodiment.

[0157] In the third structural change step S13, based on the structural change step S2, the battery cell 3 can be charged while a central section of it is pressed in the width direction B and / or height direction C, particularly in the lamination direction A, especially under a predetermined pressure condition.

[0158] With reference to Fig. 7 includes a reuse system 400 according to the third embodiment, in particular the press device 301 similar to the reuse system 300 according to the second embodiment, and the lithium-ion battery 1 can be provided in the form of the battery cell 3, in particular the reuse unit 10.

[0159] In the third structural change step S13, as in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 8, the battery cell 3 is charged in a state in which only a central section 3a is pressed in the lateral direction B of the battery cell 3, for example by actuating (only) the central press pair 302A, which is located in particular in the central section of the battery cell 3 in the lateral direction B and / or vertical direction C, among the several sets of press pairs 302.

[0160] Accordingly, in the third structural change step S13, the battery cell 3 can be charged by increasing the pressing force, particularly in lamination direction A, on the central section 3a in a plane perpendicular to the lamination direction A compared to the remaining sections 3b, 3c.

[0161] If, for example, the press pairs 302 are essentially evenly divided into four in the width direction B, only one of the (two) inner press pairs 302 or both inner press pairs 302 can be actuated in the width direction B.

[0162] In contrast, in a case where the press pairs 302 are arranged so that they are essentially evenly divided into five in the width direction B, only one of the (three) inner press pairs 302, two of the (three) inner press pairs 302 or the three inner press pairs 302 or only the central press pair 302 can be actuated in the width direction B.

[0163] The actuated inner press pairs 302, in particular the actuated one, two, three or more inner press pairs 302, can enclose at least the central press pair 302 in the width direction B.

[0164] This means that in the third structural change step S13, a section can be pressed into the battery cell 3 that can include the central section 3a, but does not include a circumferential edge section 3z.

[0165] This leads to the electrolyte solution in one or both of the side sections 3b, 3c of the battery cell 3 likely flowing outwards from the circumferential edge section 3z and thus being consumed.

[0166] In contrast, since the central section 3a is separated from the circumferential section 3z, the electrolyte solution 39 is likely to remain.

[0167] By increasing the pressing force, especially in the central section 3a, where the electrolyte solution 39 is likely to remain, lithium is therefore easily and efficiently deposited, especially on the section of the negative electrode material 35, which corresponds in particular to the central section 3a as the lithium deposition section.

[0168] In the third structural modification step S13, the lithium-ion battery 1 must only be charged in its compressed state.

[0169] A step of pressing the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular by the pressing device 301, and a step of charging the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular by the charging device 12, can be started simultaneously, or one of them can be started first.

[0170] This means that after the pressing step has been started or carried out by the pressing device 301, the loading device 12 can start or carry out the loading step, in particular while the pressed state is maintained by the pressing device 301. [Fourth embodiment]

[0171] Fig. Figure 9 is a flowchart that schematically illustrates a process for reusing the lithium-ion battery 1 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0172] As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 9, in the fourth embodiment a gas extrusion step S14 is carried out in particular before the structural modification step S2.

[0173] Assuming that gas is generated inside the lithium-ion battery 1 or that gas is present inside the lithium-ion battery 1, in the gas extrusion step S14 the gas can be forced towards the side of the circumferential edge section 3z of the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular by pressing it sequentially in lamination direction A under a predetermined pressing condition, in particular by pressing the lithium-ion battery 1 or a battery cell 3 of the lithium-ion battery 1 sequentially through the sets of press pairs 302, in particular in lamination direction A, in particular under a predetermined pressing condition.

[0174] When the gas is generated inside the lithium-ion battery 1, or when the gas is present inside the lithium-ion battery 1, the external appearance of the lithium-ion battery 1 expands.

[0175] Thus, the production of the gas can be verified, in particular, by observing the external appearance of the lithium-ion battery 1.

[0176] Since the pressure inside the lithium-ion battery 1 also fluctuates due to gas generation, the gas generation can be additionally or alternatively checked by means of the fluctuation of the pressing force, in particular by the pressing device 301 described below.

[0177] In general, when the gas is generated in the lithium-ion battery 1, the transfer of electrons between the positive electrode material 31 and the negative electrode material 35 is inhibited by the gas, and therefore the charging and / or discharging reaction is less likely to occur.

[0178] The gas is a byproduct that arises from the electrolyte solution 39 as a result of the charging and / or discharging reaction, particularly during the primary and / or secondary use of the lithium-ion battery 1. The gas is, for example, methane and / or carbon dioxide.

[0179] With reference to Fig. 7 includes a reuse system 500 according to the fourth embodiment, in particular the press device 301 similar to the reuse system 300 according to the second embodiment, and the lithium-ion battery 1 can be provided in the form of the battery cell 3 of the reuse unit 10.

[0180] In the gas extrusion step S14, the gas generated in the battery cell 3 is extruded, in particular, to the side of the circumferential edge section 3z, especially by sequentially actuating the press pairs 302 in the multiple sets of press pairs 302, for example, from the side of one end section 3b to the side of the other end section 3c in the width direction B or vice versa, or by sequentially actuating them from the central section 3a in the width direction B to the side of one or both of the side sections 3b, 3c in the width direction B.

[0181] Accordingly, when the gas is generated in the battery cell 3, the gas extrusion step can also be provided to extrude the gas, in particular in the direction of the circumferential edge section 3z of the negative electrode material 35, in a direction in the plane perpendicular to the lamination direction A, especially before the structural modification step S2.

[0182] For example, in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 10A, after the central section 3a of the battery cell 3 has (first) been pressed in the lateral direction B, one or both of the side sections 3b, 3c can be additionally pressed in the lateral direction B, as shown in Fig. 10B illustrates.

[0183] This causes the gas to be extruded from the side of the central section 3a in the lateral direction B of the battery cell 3 towards one or both of the side sections 3b, 3c. Each of the sections 3a, 3b, 3c of the battery cell 3 can remain compressed in such a way as to prevent the extruded gas from flowing back towards the central section 3a and / or the same of the battery cell 3.

[0184] Furthermore, as in Fig. Figure 11A illustrates that, in particular, after pressing one end section 3b in the width direction B of the battery cell 3, the central section 3a can be additionally pressed in the width direction, as shown in Fig. 11B illustrates, and the other end section 3c in the width direction B can further be pressed, as shown in Fig. 11C illustrates this, or vice versa.

[0185] This causes the gas to be extruded from the side of one end section 3b to the side of the other end section 3c in the lateral direction B or vice versa.

[0186] In this process, each of the sections 3a, 3b, 3c of the battery cell 3 remains in a manner to be compressed in such a way as to prevent the extruded gas from flowing back towards the central section 3a or the like of the battery cell 3.

[0187] This causes the electrolyte solution 39 to be easily distributed around the negative electrode material 35 by extruding the gas, in particular in the direction of the circumferential edge section 3z.

[0188] This allows the charging reaction to be generated, particularly in the negative electrode material 35, even in a battery cell 3 in which the gas is generated and / or in which the gas is present.

[0189] Thus, even in battery cell 3, where the gas is generated and / or where the gas is present, the structural change of the surface of the negative electrolyte can be accelerated by charging in a locally compressed state.

[0190] This allows lithium to be easily deposited on the section in the negative electrode material 35 where the structural change of the surface of the active material of the negative electrode is accelerated.

[0191] In the second to fourth embodiments described above, the case in which the structural modification step is carried out, in particular, after the lithium-ion battery 1, in particular in the form of the battery cell 3, has been provided for the reuse step S1, was described as an example.

[0192] However, the invention is not limited thereto. The lithium-ion battery 1, in the form of the battery pack or battery module 4, can be provided to the reuse step S 1 and / or the lithium deposition step. In this case, the press 301 can be pre-installed in the battery pack or battery module 4.

[0193] The reuse system of the lithium-ion battery 1 according to the present disclosure is not limited to the configurations described in the preceding embodiments and various modifications can be made to it.

[0194] In the foregoing embodiment, the description has been made using the example in which the lithium-ion battery may be of the laminated type, but it is not limited to this.

[0195] For example, a lithium-ion battery can be used in a cylindrical or polygonal shape, wherein the lithium-ion battery is formed by winding a ribbon-shaped laminated electrode body in which a ribbon-shaped positive electrode material, a ribbon-shaped separator and a ribbon-shaped negative electrode material are laminated in lamination direction A in a cylindrical or polygonal shape.

[0196] In the case of a cylindrical or polygonal shape, the lamination direction can correspond to a radial direction orthogonal to the winding direction.

[0197] Although the description is based on cells, it can also be implemented on a module or battery pack basis.

[0198] In the case of a battery pack-based implementation, the pressing device, the cooling device and the like can be provided in advance in the battery pack. [Additional comments]

[0199] According to the present revelation, the following aspects are provided. [First aspect]

[0200] A battery processing method for processing a lithium-ion battery comprising a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, configured by laminating the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material in a lamination direction, wherein the battery processing method includes, in particular, the following in the specified order: a structural modification step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to effect a structural change, in particular of a surface of the active material of the negative electrode; and a lithium deposition step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material. In other words, the first aspect can be applied to a battery processing method for processing a lithium-ion battery comprising a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material may in particular be laminated in a lamination direction, wherein the battery processing method in particular comprises the following in the specified order: a structural modification step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery to effect a structural change of the lithium-ion battery, in particular to effect a structural change of a surface of the active material of the negative electrode; and a lithium deposition step for charging and / or discharging the lithium-ion battery, in order to deposit lithium, in particular on the negative electrode material.

[0201] The negative electrode material can include a negative electrode current collector and an active negative electrode material laminated onto a surface of the negative electrode current collector, particularly a surface of the negative electrode current collector facing a separator. The separator can be arranged between the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material, for example, to physically and / or electrically separate the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material from each other. [Second aspect]

[0202] The battery processing method according to the first aspect, in which a charging current is applied in the structural modification step, particularly during the pressing of the negative electrode material. [Third aspect]

[0203] The battery processing method according to the second aspect, wherein in the structural modification step the charging current is applied, in particular during the pressing of the negative electrode material with a predetermined pressing force, especially in the lamination direction. [Fourth aspect]

[0204] The battery processing method according to the second or third aspect, wherein the negative electrode material is pressed through a pressing device which includes several sets of pressing pairs, wherein one or more or each set of pressing pairs is provided as a pair on both sides of the lithium-ion battery, in particular as a pair on both sides of the battery cell of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the lamination direction, wherein the multiple sets of press pairs are subdivided or separated, particularly in a lateral direction of the lithium-ion battery, in particular in a lateral direction of the battery cell of the lithium-ion battery. [Fifth aspect]

[0205] The battery processing method according to the fourth aspect, wherein the multiple sets of press pairs include a central press pair for pressing a center of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction, a press pair located on one side for pressing one side of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction, and a press pair located on the other side for pressing another side of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction.

[0206] The central press pair can be located in the middle (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction. The press pair located on one side can be located on one side (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction. The press pair located on the other side can be located on the opposite side (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction.

[0207] In other words, the multiple sets of press pairs can include one or more, two or more, or three or more of a central press pair configured to press a central section of the lithium battery, and in particular to press a central section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction; a press pair located on one side configured to press a side section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular to press a side section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction; and a press pair located on the other side configured to press another side section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular to press another side section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction.

[0208] The pressing pairs can be configured to press (only) a section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular, to press (only) a section of the lithium-ion battery cell. The section to be pressed by the respective pressing pair can correspond to a position of the respective pressing pair, especially in the width direction. That is, the section to be pressed can be only the center of the lithium-ion battery, one side of the lithium-ion battery, the other side of the lithium-ion battery, or one or more of these.

[0209] Thus, the lithium-ion battery, and in particular the battery cell, can be pressed locally by some of the pressing pairs. [Sixth Aspect]

[0210] The battery processing method according to one of the first to fifth aspects, in which, in the structural change step, charging and / or discharging is carried out by pulse charging, in which a charging phase and a charging pause phase can be carried out alternately.

[0211] In other words, the battery processing method according to the sixth aspect can be based on the battery processing method according to one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein in the structural modification step the charging and / or discharging of the lithium-ion battery is carried out by pulse charging, in which in particular a charging phase and a charging pause phase can be carried out alternately and / or repeated. [Seventh aspect]

[0212] The battery processing method according to one of the first to sixth aspects, which further includes: a gas extrusion step in which gas is extruded inside the lithium-ion battery, in particular from a central section to a circumferential edge section in a plane perpendicular to the lamination direction of the negative electrode material, in particular before the structural modification step. [Eighth Aspect]

[0213] The battery processing method according to one of the first to seventh aspects, in which, in the lithium deposition step, charging and / or discharging is carried out by pulse charging, in which a charging phase and a charging pause phase are carried out alternately. [Ninth aspect]

[0214] The battery processing method according to one of the first to eighth aspects, designed for the lithium-ion battery with an energy density of approximately 600 Wh / l or more.

[0215] In other words, the lithium-ion battery to be processed using the method and / or system described herein can have an energy density of about 600 Wh / l or more, in particular 600 Wh / l or more. [Tenth aspect]

[0216] The battery processing method according to one of the first to ninth aspects, which further includes the following: a lithium extraction step for extracting lithium, in particular from the negative electrode material, especially after the lithium deposition step. [Eleventh aspect]

[0217] The battery processing procedure according to one of the first to tenth aspects, which further includes the following: a lithium collection step after a lithium extraction step, wherein in the lithium collection step the (extracted) lithium is mixed with carbonated water, which can then be filtered to collect it, in particular as lithium carbonate.

[0218] In other words, a lithium collection step can be carried out after a lithium extraction step. In the lithium collection step, the lithium, especially the extracted lithium, can be mixed with carbonated water, which can then be filtered to collect lithium, particularly as lithium carbonate. [Twelfth Aspect]

[0219] A battery processing system for processing a lithium-ion battery, which includes a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the battery processing system includes the following: a pressing device that presses only or at least a section of the lithium-ion battery; and a charging and / or discharging device that charges and / or discharges the lithium-ion battery.

[0220] In other words, a ninth aspect can be added to a battery processing system for processing a lithium-ion battery, which includes a positive electrode material and a negative electrode material, wherein the positive electrode material and the negative electrode material may in particular be laminated in a lamination direction, wherein the battery processing system comprises the following: a pressing device configured to press only or at least one section of the lithium-ion battery; and a charging and / or discharging device configured to charge and / or discharge the lithium-ion battery. [Thirteenth aspect]

[0221] The battery processing system according to the twelfth aspect, wherein the pressing device is configured to press the lithium-ion battery with a predetermined pressing force, particularly in the lamination direction, and especially to press locally. [Fourteenth Aspect]

[0222] The battery processing system according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect, wherein the pressing device includes several sets of pressing pairs, wherein one or more or each set of pressing pairs is provided as a pair, in particular on both sides of the lithium-ion battery, especially as a pair on both sides of the battery cell of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the lamination direction.

[0223] The multiple sets of press pairs can be subdivided or separated, particularly in a lateral direction of the lithium-ion battery, especially in a lateral direction of the battery cell of the lithium-ion battery. [Fifteenth aspect]

[0224] The battery processing system according to the fourteenth aspect, wherein the multiple sets of press pairs include a central press pair configured to press a center of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction, a press pair located on one side configured to press one side of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction, and a press pair located on the other side configured to press another side of the lithium-ion battery, particularly in the width direction.

[0225] The central press pair can be located in the middle (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction. The press pair located on one side can be located on one side (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction. The press pair located on the other side can be located on the opposite side (of the lithium-ion battery), particularly in the width direction.

[0226] In other words, the multiple sets of press pairs can include one or more, two or more, or three or more of a central press pair configured to press a central section of the lithium battery, and in particular to press a central section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction; a press pair located on one side configured to press a side section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular to press a side section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction; and a press pair located on the other side configured to press another side section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular to press another side section of the lithium-ion battery cell, especially in the lateral direction.

[0227] The press pairs can be configured to press (only) a section of the lithium-ion battery, and in particular to press (only) a section of the battery cell of the lithium-ion battery. The section to be pressed by the respective press pair can correspond to a position of the respective press pair, especially in the lateral direction.

[0228] Thus, the lithium-ion battery, and in particular the battery cell, can be pressed locally by some of the pressing pairs.

[0229] The battery processing system described herein may refer in particular to the reuse system described herein, or the reuse system described herein may, for example, include the battery processing system described herein.

[0230] The battery processing method described herein may refer in particular to the method described herein for the reuse of a lithium-ion battery, or the method described herein for the reuse of a lithium-ion battery may, for example, include the battery processing method described herein. [List of reference symbols] 1 lithium-ion battery 3 battery cells 4 battery modules 10 reuse units 12 Charging device 20 recycling units 21 Disassembly device 22 Extraction device 23 Collecting device 31 Positive electrode material 34 Separator 35 Negative electrode material 38 laminated electrode bodies 39 Electrolyte solution 40 cases 100 reuse system 201 Cooling device 301 Pressing device QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] JP 2022 - 049 831 A

[0004]

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