Experimental investigation of dust explosion risks in black mass from Lithium-Ion Battery (LIB) recycling plants

Paper in proceeding, 2024

Four black mass samples from different LIB recycling plants are experimentally investigated. The microscope images, particle size distribution, water content and organic carbonates are analysed. Dust explosion experiments are performed in a 20-L vessel. Parameters including dust concentration, ignition energy, ignition timing, dust injection pressure are varied. Results show that a 10-kJ ignition energy cannot generate high explosion overpressure, whereas an ignition energy of 20-kJ yields an explosion overpressure above 6 bar for black mass sample C at a concentration of 300 g/m 3. More research into combustible dust of black mass is needed to ensure a safe and cost-effective LIB recycling process.