Abstract: Electrochemical systems and methods for removing and recovering phosphorus, in the form of phosphates, from aqueous solutions are provided. The removal of the phosphates takes place in an electrochemical cell having an electrode that includes bismuth (Bi), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), or an oxide thereof. During the removal of phosphates from aqueous solution, the metal (Bi, Zn, Cu, or Fe) and/or metal oxide of the electrode is converted into its corresponding metal phosphate within the electrode via a reversible conversion reaction. The phosphate stored in the electrode during the removal step is subsequently released into a recovery solution via electrochemical reduction of the metal phosphate back into a metal.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the electrochemical extraction and recovery of lithium ions from spent lithium-ion battery electrodes and other lithium sources are provided. The methods and systems use a lithium-storage electrode to remove lithium ions (Li+) from an aqueous electrolyte solution in an electrochemical lithium extraction step. In a subsequent electrochemical lithium recovery step, lithium ions stored in the lithium-storage electrode are released into a lithium recovery solution. The lithium may be recovered in various forms, depending upon the design of the electrochemical cells used in the methods and systems. For example, lithium can be recovered as lithium phosphate (Li3PO4), lithium hydroxide (LiOH), and/or lithium carbonate (Li2CO3).

Abstract: Electrochemical systems and methods for removing and recovering phosphorus, in the form of phosphates, from aqueous solutions are provided. The removal of the phosphates takes place in an electrochemical cell having an electrode that includes bismuth (Bi), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), or an oxide thereof. During the removal of phosphates from aqueous solution, the metal (Bi, Zn, Cu, or Fe) and/or metal oxide of the electrode is converted into its corresponding metal phosphate within the electrode via a reversible conversion reaction. The phosphate stored in the electrode during the removal step is subsequently released into a recovery solution via electrochemical reduction of the metal phosphate back into a metal.