This inventor holds 3 USPTO granted patents, plus 1 CIPO patent and 2 EPO patents. Top assignee: Umicore. Active years: 2004-2019.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2004-2019
Title: Innovations by Sybolt Brouwer in Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling
Introduction
Sybolt Brouwer is a notable inventor based in Berchem, Belgium. He has made significant contributions to the field of lithium-ion battery recycling, holding a total of 3 patents. His work focuses on innovative processes that enhance the recovery of valuable materials from spent batteries.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a process for smelting lithium-ion batteries. This invention involves a method for separating cobalt from lithium in a charge that includes lithium-ion batteries. The process utilizes a bath furnace equipped with a submerged air-fed plasma torch to inject plasma gas into the melt. It defines and maintains a bath redox potential that allows cobalt to be reduced to its metallic state, while lithium is oxidized and reported to the slag phase. This simultaneous reduction and oxidation process results in a suitably low cobalt concentration in the slag.
Another significant patent by Brouwer is a process for recycling lithium-ion batteries. This invention focuses on recovering metals and heat from spent rechargeable batteries, particularly those containing low amounts of cobalt. The process allows for the processing of cobalt-depleted lithium-ion batteries in a copper smelter. By feeding a useful charge and slag formers to the smelter and adding heating and reducing agents, the production rate of copper blister is increased while reducing energy consumption from fossil sources.
Career Highlights
Sybolt Brouwer is currently employed at Umicore, a company known for its commitment to sustainable resource management and recycling technologies. His work at Umicore has positioned him as a key player in the advancement of battery recycling technologies.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Brouwer has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Jeroen Heulens and David Van Horebeek. These collaborations have contributed to the development of innovative solutions in the field of battery recycling.
Conclusion
Sybolt Brouwer's contributions to lithium-ion battery recycling through his innovative patents demonstrate his commitment to sustainability and resource recovery. His work not only enhances the efficiency of recycling processes but also supports the transition to a more sustainable future.