Capitol News

Jingshan Chai and Amir Mirtaleb, Ph.D. students in Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at Michigan State University (MSU), are working on lithium-ion battery components as the electric vehicle industry evolves. The market for these batteries could reach $35 billion by 2030.

With lithium-ion batteries having an average lifespan of about ten years, innovative recycling strategies are becoming increasingly important. MSU researchers have received $706,000 from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to advance the reuse and recycling of batteries and other critical minerals.

Ruigang Wang, a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, and Annick Anctil, an associate professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at MSU, will collaborate with Cirba Solutions on this project. "Polyanionic LiFePO4 cathodes have been increasingly employed in EVs and energy storage systems due to their high-temperature stability, environmental friendliness, and low cost," Wang said. He noted that the market size for LFP cathodes is expected to grow to $35.2 billion.

Anctil explained that the project's goal is to demonstrate an economical, scalable, and environmentally friendly route for recycling spent LFP battery cathode materials. "The long-term impact includes significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, decreased ecological footprints, and conservation of biodiversity through reduced raw material extraction," she added.

MSU is one of three universities sharing $4.4 million in EGLE funds. Other awards include $2.28 million for Lawrence Technological University's Centrepolis Accelerator and $1.45 million for the University of Michigan.

Phil Roos, EGLE director, stated: “Building a sustainable economy requires ingenuity and innovation from our scientists, entrepreneurs, and businesses.” He emphasized that EGLE’s Critical Minerals Grants aim to support research projects strengthening Michigan’s supply chain for critical minerals needed for clean energy production while protecting natural resources.

This information was initially published on the College of Engineering website.