Université Laval

Purpose

The project aims to revolutionize the extraction of critical metals for battery materials with innovative solvent metallurgical technologies, focusing on deep eutectic solvents (DES) and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI-ML). It addresses the inefficiencies and environmental impacts of traditional methods, such as hydrometallurgy, by offering greening solutions for metal recovery. Activities include DES synthesis and testing, AI-ML-assisted prototype design, and autonomous laboratory process validation for efficient scale-up and industrial applicability. The results of the project are intended to strengthen Canada’s position in the global battery supply chain and its transition to a low-carbon economy by offering accelerated, efficient and greener technologies for the recovery of critical metals needed for battery materials.