WHAT'S NEW // EXCO 59
ExCo 59: Jeju Island, Korea
As our upcoming meeting approaches, we are very much looking forward to seeing everyone again to share insights and progress updates.
Below is some further information about what will be happening during the meeting.
PICTURE: Jaemin Yu/Unsplash
Outline itinerary
Monday, April 29
13:00-17:00
Strategic Planning Group & Outreach Committee meeting
Tuesday, April 30
09:00-13:00
Task 1 workshop (ICC)
14:00-18:00
ExCo meeting part 1
Wednesday, May 1
09:00-13:00
Technical tour
14:00-18:00
ExCo meeting part 2
Thursday, May 2
09:00-13:00
11th International EV Expo (ICC)
14:00-18:00
ExCo meeting (closed session)
Technical tour
A technical tour has been arranged by this year’s host to showcase the innovative technology being developed in battery reuse. The topic of battery reuse is pertinent to the EV industry but also within HEV TCP, as it is the subject of Task 51, managed by Dr. Lim.
The technical tour will take place at the Hydrogen Complex, EV Battery Recycle Centre. During the site visit, we can expect to learn about the transformation of discarded EV batteries and how they are turned into a valuable material known as 'black powder.' Black powder is a fine substance derived from crushing and disassembling battery packs. It contains essential elements like lithium, nickel, and cobalt, which can be reclaimed and repurposed.
PICTURE: Jeju Island's recycling centre for batteries from electric cars. (Electrive.com)
Despite boasting well-established EV infrastructure, Jeju has grappled with the management of expired EV batteries. With no local expertise in EV battery recycling and transportation challenges to the mainland due to safety concerns, storing expired batteries has become a pressing issue, with hundreds stockpiled at the Jeju Technopark.
To address this, the Ministry of Environment and Jeju Province envision converting these batteries into black powder, facilitating the extraction of valuable materials like lithium and cobalt. This process involves freezing the battery electrolyte using liquid nitrogen and liquefied natural gas at ultra-low temperatures, followed by crushing to produce the sought-after black powder.