Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES)
A universal platform for waste processing
The problem of textile waste recycling
Complexity of separating blended fabrics
Modern textile products often consist of mixtures of natural and synthetic fibres, making their separation and recycling by traditional methods difficult.
Large volumes of waste
Millions of tonnes of textile waste end up in landfills each year, creating a serious environmental problem and wasting valuable resources.
Toxic recycling methods
Existing methods of chemical textile recycling often use aggressive and environmentally hazardous reagents, creating additional environmental risks.
The problem of recycling lithium-ion batteries
Growing waste volumes
Annual increase in the number of used batteries
Fire hazard
Risks of self-ignition when stored improperly
Toxic components
Content of heavy metals and electrolytes
Complexity of recycling
Multi-component structure complicates separation
Lithium-ion batteries contain valuable metals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and copper, which can be extracted and reused. However, existing recycling methods often require the use of aggressive acids and high temperatures, creating additional environmental risks.
Waste Processing Issues in Ukraine
High Cost of Licences
A licence for waste disposal costs up to $20,000
Lack of Infrastructure
No textile or battery recycling plants
Exporting Abroad
Need to transport hazardous waste to Europe
Our solution: Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES)
Our project focuses on the development of innovative deep eutectic solvents (DES) for efficient recycling of textile waste and extraction of valuable metals from lithium-ion battery ash. We propose to create a universal technology platform that will allow the use of the same solvents (e.g. after regeneration) for different types of waste, significantly increasing the efficiency of recycling and reducing the environmental impact.
Environmentally safe
Biodegradable components, low toxicity
Efficiency
High selectivity towards target components
Reusability
Possibility of regeneration and reuse
Moderate conditions
Operation at relatively low temperatures without high pressure
Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are mixtures formed by mixing two or more components in a certain ratio, resulting in a significant decrease in melting point. They have unique properties that allow them to effectively dissolve various materials under moderate conditions.
Hypothetical DES mixtures for dissolving cotton
To enhance dissolution efficiency, 1-5% H₂O₂ for mild oxidation, 0.5% FeSO₄ as Fenton reaction initiator, or 5% water to reduce viscosity and accelerate diffusion can be added.
Innovative approach: universal solvent
Textile recycling
Dissolution of cellulose and separation of blended fabrics using ChCl-based DES and organic acids
Filtration and regeneration
Separation of dissolved components and regeneration of the solvent for reuse (Membrane technologies for DES regeneration (10+ cycles of use)
Battery recycling
Using the same type of DES for metal extraction after pre-treatment of lithium-ion batteries by pyrolysis or after grinding in an inert atmosphere
Metal recovery
Selective precipitation and recovery of valuable metals (Li, Co, Mn, Al) from the solution
Our innovative approach is to create a universal technology platform where the same types of solvents can be used for different types of waste, significantly increasing the efficiency and profitability of the recycling process.
DES Mixtures for Metal Extraction from Ash
ChCl + Citric Acid
Strong complexing agent with pH ~2. Effectively extracts Li⁺, Al³⁺, Mn²⁺. Studies have shown effective extraction of lithium (77.5%), cobalt (79.9%), manganese (80%), nickel (66.2%), copper (82.5%) and aluminium (93.8%) at 90°C for 24 hours.
ChCl + Oxalic Acid
Aggressive chelating agent, effective for extracting Li⁺, Co³⁺, Cu²⁺. Caution is required when using due to potential hazards from excess. May be particularly effective for dissolving metal oxides.
ChCl + Tartaric Acid
Moderate reducing agent with dual COO- group. Well suited for extracting Mn, Fe, Co. Less aggressive compared to other acidic DES, making it safer for use in laboratory settings.
Technology Roadmap of the Project
TRL 1-2: Laboratory Research
Selection of optimal DES compositions for dissolving cellulose and extracting metals. Determination of optimal process conditions (temperature, time, component ratio).
TRL 3: Experimental Verification
Testing of selected mixtures on real textile and battery ash samples. Evaluation of extraction efficiency and solvent regeneration capabilities.
3
TRL 4: Prototype
Development of a prototype facility for comprehensive waste processing. Process optimisation and preparation for scaling up.
TRL 5+: Scaling Up
Creation of a pilot plant and preparation for industrial implementation. Evaluation of economic efficiency and environmental impact.
Scientific justification of efficiency
Dissolution of cotton
Research confirms that DES effectively depolymerises cellulose and destroys the fibre structure.
Increased functionality
DES treatment reduces the crystallinity of the fibres and increases the number of hydroxyl groups.
Metal extraction
Acid-based DES demonstrate high selectivity in extracting lithium, cobalt and nickel.
Environmental friendliness of the process
Natural DES solve the problem of secondary pollution, are non-toxic or low-toxic and practically do not evaporate.
Numerous studies confirm the promise of our approach. We synthesise existing knowledge and develop innovative DES combinations for universal application.
Request to the accelerator
Laboratory equipment
Access to analytical equipment for testing
Mentoring support
Expertise in the field of chemical technology and waste processing
Research funding
Funds for purchasing reagents and conducting experiments
Industry connections
Contacts with potential partners and customers
We are developing a new generation of biodegradable, inexpensive solvents for textile recycling and metal extraction from battery waste. Our goal is to create a reusable system adapted to different types of waste. At the TRL1-3 stage, we need support in conducting extraction tests, selecting parameters, and investigating possible synergies with pyrolysis and mechanical separation.
Progress
Meeting with the French Minister for Europe - Benjamin Addam at Change Now 2025
Contacts
Dmytro - CEO and Vision Architect
felmars.lab@gmail.com
Phone: +380 66 159 69 29
