Features and dangers of CRM and toxic powders

The main CRM powders used in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries are:

Lithium hydroxide (LiOH)

Lithium hydroxide is a key raw material for the production of cathodes for lithium-ion batteries. It is used to make lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) and other cathode compounds.

Nickel Oxide (NiO)

Nickel oxide is an important component of NMC and NCA cathodes, which provide high energy capacity and long life. Increasing the nickel content in the cathodes makes it possible to improve the energy density of batteries, which is a major issue for automotive applications.

Cobalt oxide (Co3O4)

Cobalt oxide is used in the manufacture of cathodes for lithium-ion batteries, particularly in NMC and NCA compounds. Although cobalt is an expensive and controversial element due to ethical and environmental issues surrounding its extraction, it helps improve the stability and performance of batteries. Efforts are underway to reduce the cobalt content in cathodes or to develop cobalt-free alternatives.

Manganese oxide (MnO2)

Manganese oxide is used in the manufacture of lithium manganese oxide (LMO) and NMC cathodes. It provides good thermal stability and increased safety for lithium-ion batteries, but has a lower energy capacity than nickel and cobalt-based cathodes.

Critical Raw Materials powders such as lithium hydroxide, nickel oxide, cobalt oxide and manganese oxide are key components for the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries and their supply, processing and disposal. usage have a significant impact on battery performance, cost and durability.

These compounds are used in preparation of active cathode materials (PCAM - Precursor Cathode Active Material), which are then transformed into active cathode materials (CAM - Cathode Active Material).

Critical Raw Materials (CRM) and toxic powders have several characteristics that make them potentially dangerous to human health and the environment, as well as to the safety of production processes.

Fine grain size

CRM powders often have a very fine particle size, making it easier for workers to inhale them and disperse them into the air. This can lead to respiratory problems, respiratory tract irritation and long-term health effects with prolonged exposure.

Chemical reactivity

Some CRM powders may react violently with water, air or other substances, releasing heat, toxic gases or other hazardous products. This reactivity can lead to risks for the safety of workers and facilities, as well as for the environment.

Toxicity

CRM powders may exhibit toxic effects on human health, even at low doses. Effects may vary depending on the nature and concentration of the substances, but may include skin irritation, respiratory problems, neurological effects or organ damage.

Flammability

Some CRM powders are flammable or present a risk of explosion under certain conditions, for example in the presence of ignition sources, airborne dust or high concentrations of flammable gases. This can pose risks to the safety of workers and facilities, as well as the environment.

Due to these hazardous characteristics, it is important to have appropriate protective measures in place, such as containment equipment, ventilation systems, personal protective equipment and safe handling procedures, to ensure worker safety , environmental protection and product quality when handling CRM powders.

Big bag & sack discharging - Glove box - Duopal DP2

Exposure to Critical Raw Materials (CRM) powders can have serious consequences on the health of workers and the environment.

Health effects may include:

Irritation of the respiratory tract and skin

Inhalation or skin contact with CRM powders may cause irritation, itching, redness and other unpleasant symptoms.

Allergic sensitization

Repeated exposure to CRM powders may lead to allergic sensitization, with allergic reactions such as asthma, rhinitis or eczema.

A potential carcinogenic effect 

Some CRM powders, particularly those containing nickel and cobalt, may exhibit carcinogenic effects. Prolonged exposure or exposure to high concentrations may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as lung or nasopharyngeal cancer.

Target organ toxicity

CRM powders may have toxic effects on specific organs, such as the liver, kidneys or nervous system. These effects can manifest as various symptoms, such as nausea, headache, dizziness or problems with memory and concentration.

Environmentally, CRM powders can have negative impacts such as:

Contamination of soil and water

CRM powders can settle on soils and enter ground or surface water, causing contamination and risks to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

A disruption of ecosystems

Contamination by CRM powders can affect biodiversity and disrupt ecosystems, having toxic effects on plants, animals and microorganisms.

A long-term risk for biodiversity

The effects of CRM powder contamination can persist in the environment for long periods of time, with long-term consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem services.

To minimize these risks to health and the environment, it is essential to put in place adequate protective measures, such as containment equipment, ventilation systems, personal protective equipment and safe handling procedures, when handling CRM powders.

Case study: Big bag emptying and dosing for the manufacture of copper collectors for electric batteries