New Tech Resurrects End-Of-Life Lithium Batteries Back To 95% Capacity

Cornell University researchers developed the DEER method, which directly restores lithium-ion battery electrodes without smelting. Electrochemical treatment with DMI removes the SEI layer and returns up to 95% of original capacity, with recycling cost estimated at $15.25 per kg versus $26.31 for traditional methods.

• DEER method returns batteries to up to 95% of original capacity
• Degradation drops from 0.072% to 0.042% per cycle
• Recycling cost is $15.25 per kg versus $26.31
• Repeated regeneration restores up to 90% capacity