In this page only the peer-reviewed publications about CARAMEL project are reported (they are also available in SCOPUS).
- 1. Recent improvements in salt-assisted and microwave-assisted recovery methods for sustainable metal extraction from NCM cathodes in spent lithium-ion batteries: a review,Separation and Purification Technology, Volume 363, Part 1, 14 August 2025, 131918 (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seppur.2025.131918)
- Abstract: The increasing adoption of electric vehicles has generated a pressing need for sustainable management of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), particularly those utilizing nickel-rich layered oxide cathodes (NCM). This review critically examines recent advancements in recycling technologies, focusing on innovative methods such as salt-assisted roasting and microwave-assisted thermal treatments, as well as their combined applications. These approaches demonstrate promising potential to enhance the selective recovery of critical metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese, while addressing environmental and economic challenges. Additionally, the review highlights sustainability assessments and identifies key gaps in the current literature, emphasizing the need for integrated strategies to minimize energy consumption and environmental impact. By providing a comprehensive analysis of these emerging recovery methods, this work aims to guide future research and industrial adoption, contributing to a circular economy for LIBs.
- 2. Sample preparation procedures for elemental analysis of critical raw materials in lithium-ion battery black mass: Challenges responding to the supplementary battery recycling regulation, Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 380, April 2025, 124973 (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124973).
- Abstract: Accurate assessment of black mass (BM) composition is critical for implementing the European Commission’s proposed methodology for calculating and verifying recycling efficiency and material recovery from waste lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). BM, derived from spent LIBs, presents analytical challenges due to its complex matrix and high-carbon content, which can impede complete dissolution and bias recovery calculations. Incomplete BM digestion and inconsistencies in analytical methods can lead to overestimated recycling efficiencies. This study evaluates and optimizes sample preparation strategies, including digestion protocols and analytical techniques, to reliably extract and quantify critical metals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. To address these issues, we propose standardized digestion procedures and highlight the suitability of techniques like TXRF, which mitigate matrix effects and enhance data reliability. This research underscores the importance of defining clear standards and methodologies in the regulatory framework, ensuring that reported recovery rates accurately reflect true recycling efficiencies. Finally, this work proposes some regulatory and policy improvements, intending to better align with the EU’s sustainability goals, promoting reliable data, advancing circular economy objectives, and supporting the broader energy transition.
