Thiocarbamoyl sulfamic acid‐derived mesoporous silica: a comprehensive study on selective adsorption of cobalt and lithium from spent lithium‐ion batteries

Abstract BACKGROUND The recycling of spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is crucial for resource conservation and environmental sustainability, particularly due to the valuable metals they contain, such as cobalt and lithium. This study focuses on developing an ion‐exchange method for cobalt recovery from waste LIB solutions, using a mesoporous silica derivative of carbamoyl sulfamic acid (PST‐SA) as the adsorbent. RESULTS The batch method for adsorption experiments identified the most effective conditions: a pH of 8, 0.08 g PST‐SA, and a shaking time of 60 min, at room temperature. These experiments demonstrated a remarkable cobalt uptake capacity of 270.70 mg g −1 , highlighting PST‐SA's exceptional adsorption capabilities. Additionally, thermodynamic studies revealed the adsorption process to be both endothermic and spontaneous, enhancing our understanding of its chemically reactive mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS The practical application of PST‐SA, particularly when processing spent LIBs, showcases its real‐world utility. The efficient separation of cobaltous oxalate and lithium phosphate into pure forms emphasizes PST‐SA's potential in recycling and resource recovery. Given its cost‐effectiveness and strong adsorption capacity, PST‐SA stands out as an excellent solution for the removal of Co(II) from discarded LIBs, promoting sustainable material recovery practices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).