The project reserachers demonstrated a new chemicals-free circular approach that converts real spent lithium-ion battery black mass into functional lithium–aluminum layered double hydroxide (Li/Al-LDH). The process, that was patented integrates a 5-min microwave-assisted carbothermic treatment, water-only leaching, and spontaneous precipitation, enabling the formation of crystalline Li/Al-LDHs alongside high-purity Li₂CO₃ without the use of added chemical reagents. The sustainability analysis reveals a reduction of 60%–90% in environmental impacts, including embodied energy and carbon footprint, compared to conventional LDH synthesis routes. The result was highlithed by ANSA on June 18th, 2026:
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