Forced dry triboelectric charging and electrostatic separation of powdered materials was investigated, focusing on the charging behavior of lithium aluminate and talcum. Successful lithium enrichment from the talcum-lithium aluminate mixture points out the applicability of the method.

Abstract

Lithium-containing components in batteries, electronics, and renewable energy pose material and waste challenges. Ongoing research focuses on eco-friendly recycling, emphasizing electrostatic separation as a method to recover, for instance, lithium, especially in battery recycling. This study investigates forced dry triboelectric charging and electrostatic separation of powdered materials, with a focus on the charging behavior of lithium aluminate and talcum. The electrostatic separation efficiency for a blend of powders is also evaluated. Collected samples are analyzed via inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry testing to assess component enrichment. Results show successful lithium enrichment from a talcum-lithium aluminate mixture, highlighting significant separation success.