Mining side streams for LFP synthesis toward resilient lithium-ion battery manufacturing (Mi4LiT)
Important results from the project
The Vinnova-funded Mi4LIT project, under the Swedish Metals and Minerals program, enabled research into using LKAB’s iron oxide and waste stream material, phosphoric acid, as precursors for synthesis of high-value LFP cathode material. With key contributions from RISE, LKAB, PerkinElmer, and Excillum, lab-scale LFP was synthesized and its structure verified via XRD. This result facilitates establishing a resilient supply chain of critical materials for battery manufacturing in Sweden.
Expected long term effects
The project demonstrates that LFP cathode material can be produced using iron oxide and phosphate from LKAB’s Swedish local production. This creates strong opportunities to establish a resilient value chain for critical battery materials supply in Europe and aligns with LKAB’s investments in critical mineral and phosphate production from mining side streams. Moreover, these results can open great commercial and economic opportunities with further technology development.
Approach and implementation
The project was completed on time according to the management plan. Work began with optimizing the LFP synthesis protocol based on recent literature. Raw precursors were characterized and refined to meet quality requirements, followed by LFP synthesis and advanced characterization provided by RISE, Excillum, and PerkinElmer. Project findings were disseminated through partners platforms, such as RISE webpage.
The text has been written by the project team. The content is copied from the funding agency’s website and has not been reviewed by the Program Office.