Recent progress and perspective of cathode recycling technology for spent LiFePO4 batteries

Due to the shortage of fossil fuels and increasing environmental pressures, the Li-ion battery industry is developing rapidly. Currently, most electric vehicles are powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries, and a lot of lithium–iron phosphate batteries will be retired after the cycle life termination. If not addressed promptly, they will pollute the environment and waste metal resources. The recycling spent batteries holds immense significance for environmental protection and resource recycling. This article provides a comprehensive review on the current state of waste LiFePO4 cathode materials from four perspectives: pretreatment, wet recovery, direct regeneration, and production of high-value-added products. Furthermore, it compares their respective advantages and disadvantages.