A team from the Institute of Materials Chemistry at the Vienna University of Technology has developed a revolutionary recycling system that transforms spent batteries into clean fuel, eliminating the environmental impact of these wastes.
The process is based on the recovery of nickel from Ni-MH batteries (nickel-metal hydride) and alumina from aluminum foil, creating a high-performance nanocatalyst capable of converting carbon dioxide into methane.
This discovery comes at a key moment for the sector, as solutions are being explored to optimize the management of electronic waste.
How does the conversion of batteries into clean energy work?
The nanocatalyst developed in Austria uses:
- 92-96% aluminum oxide.
- 4-8% nickel.
Thanks to this combination, it efficiently transforms CO₂ and hydrogen into methane at a moderate temperature of 250°C, without the need for extreme conditions as in other industrial processes.
Moreover, unlike other catalysts, this one does not deactivate over time, which increases its efficiency and durability.
Closed-loop battery recycling: the key to sustainability
One of the most innovative features of this method is its closed-loop recycling model, which means:
- Spent catalysts can be recycled to make new precursors.
- Generated waste is minimized, ensuring an environmentally responsible process.
This approach allows each element used to have a positive impact on the environment, becoming an example for other industries interested in reducing their carbon footprint.
Impact on the energy sector
If this system is implemented on a large scale, it could:
- Significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Optimize the use of electronic waste, addressing part of the environmental issue.
- Boost the production of clean fuels, improving the global energy matrix.
With this discovery, Austria is laying the foundations for a new era in battery recycling, where electronic waste will no longer be a problem but rather valuable resources for energy transition.
