Evaluation of Physical Processing in the Recycling of Spent Domestic Batteries

Domestic-type batteries sample was tested aiming at its characterization and the evaluation of the feasibility of physical separation of its main components. The sample was essentially constituted by saline and alkaline types (Zn-MnO2 based systems, >90% w/w) and cylindrical shape (> 90% w/w). The mass balance of alkaline battery samples indicated as main battery components the steel case materials (25 %), the electrodes (71%) and the connector and separator/insulating materials (4 %), while the corresponding values to the saline type are 16%, 72% and 12% respectively. Despite electrochemical principles are similar, internal constitution of saline and alkaline batteries is different. Differences in electrolytes are also relevant (KOH in alkaline type and chloride salts in saline type) affecting therefore the mass balances in the chemical treatment. Fragmentation of batteries was done aiming at to evaluate the efficiency of the liberation of different components, namely scrap and electrodes. Results obtained are very promising considering the good efficiency reached on the physical separation treatment and consequently the chemical step will be necessarily improved.