Author: Jason Porter
Advisor: Prof. Brajendra Mishra
Category: Graduate
Abstract: While the electrodes in lead-acid batteries are readily recyclable, sulfuric acid electrolyte is contaminated with trace metal ions which preclude reuse in new batteries. We will use nanofiltration to decontaminate the spent electrolyte, in which pressure is applied against the fluid so that it passes through a porous membrane, trapping multivalent metal ions. Because of the logistics involved in transporting a mostly water-based fluid, we will distill spent electrolyte so secondary electrolyte can compete with primary sulfuric acid. In membrane distillation, a gradient in vapor pressure will drive excess water in the feed across a hydrophobic membrane into the permeate. This way, we can avoid the costs of neutralizing the sulfuric acid and then treating the effluent for disposal.
Poster Presentation:
20-03 – Electrolyte Recovery from Lead-Acid Batteries 12 04 2024