New Delhi: In a significant development towards promoting circularity and sustainable practices, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has transferred cost-effective Li-ion battery recycling technology to nine recycling industries and start-ups. This initiative is part of the Mission LiFE programme, undertaken under the "Promote circularity campaign".
The indigenous technology developed by MeitY exhibits remarkable capabilities in processing various types of discarded Li-ion batteries. Through this innovative solution, over 95 percent of Lithium (Li), Cobalt (Co), Manganese (Mn), and Nickel (Ni) contents can be recovered in the form of their corresponding oxides/carbonates, with a purity level of about 98 percent. The recycling process involves a leaching phase followed by hierarchical selective extraction of metal values using a solvent extraction process. These secondary raw materials hold immense potential for battery manufacturing and other applications.
Commending the achievement, CEO of NITI Aayog, BVR Subrahmanyam, highlighted the significance of the Centre of Excellence (CoE) model, emphasising the importance of translational research and innovation in collaboration with industry partners. He commended MeitY for its commendable efforts in transferring the Li-ion battery recycling technology to nine local industries, making a significant contribution to the circular economy.
Among the 11 verticals of the circular economy identified by NITI Aayog, MeitY has emerged as a frontrunner, showcasing the outcomes of technological advancements in a field where the country was previously limited compared to major economies.
Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Secretary of MeitY, lauded the efforts of the Centre of Excellence (CoE) on E-waste Management at C-MET, Hyderabad, for developing a low-cost technology that benefits local recycling industries and start-ups. He also acknowledged the support and collaboration of Telangana's government and Greenko Energies Private Limited in nurturing this unique concept and driving translational research for commercialisation. Additionally, he commended the C-MET scientists for their pioneering work in niche technology development, such as the extraction of hafnium metal sponge from effluents, a capability possessed by only a handful of countries.
(PSU Watch– India's Business News centre that places the spotlight on PSUs, Bureaucracy, Defence and Public Policy is now on Google News. Click here to follow. Also, join PSU Watch Channel in your Telegram. You may also follow us on Twitter here and stay updated.)