SES AI Corporation, a global provider in the development and manufacturing of high-performance lithium-metal batteries, announced that it will fund a new research initiative at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) to develop state-of-the-art recycling technology for lithium metal (Li-Metal).
The initiative will be led by WPI’s Dr. Yan Wang, the William Smith Foundation Dean’s Professor of Mechanical & Materials Engineering.
To date, recycling for lithium-ion batteries exists at an early stage but recycling technology for Li-Metal batteries has not yet been developed. Recycling Li-Metal batteries can be critical in the reduction of the shortage of raw materials and environmental problems.
The technology that will be developed from this initiative addresses this problem by developing a closed-loop, safe, and environmentally responsible Li-Metal battery recycling process that will recover most of the battery materials, allowing the recycled materials to be reused in Li-Metal battery manufacturing. The recycled material will then provide a green and sustainable solution for Li-Metal batteries.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with WPI, Professor Wang and his team of experts on this initiative to develop a critical new battery recycling technology that will allow SES AI to implement a more sustainable and efficient approach to battery manufacturing,” said Qichao Hu, founder and CEO of SES AI. “Not only will this allow us to create a more environmentally friendly process, but it will also enable us to use recycled materials that will outperform the current commercial materials we use.”
Professor Wang is a globally recognized materials researcher, and the co-founder of Massachusetts-based companies AM Batteries and Ascend Elements. His research lab at WPI focuses on the study of new electrodes and materials for energy storage, including lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, flow batteries, battery manufacturing, battery safety and recycle, and fundamental electrochemistry.
“I feel honored and excited to work with SES AI, a global leader on Li-Metal battery recycling,” said Professor Wang. “With the adoption of Li-Metal batteries, it is critical to develop recycling strategies to recycle such batteries in order to enable the supply chain and reduce the environmental impacts. With my experience and expertise on Li-ion battery recycling, I am confident that we will develop a solid strategy for the end-of-life Li-Metal batteries.”
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News