A binder-solvent system consisting of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) is commonly used in state-of-the-art cathodes for lithium-ion batteries [1]. However, NMP is highly toxic and requires energy-intensive production processes as well as solvent recovery and purification systems to prevent uncontrolled evaporation [2]. To reduce the cost and environmental impact of cathode production, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and water can be used as an alternative to PVDF and NMP [3]. In addition, the use of water instead of organic solvents for binder deactivation in aqueous processed cathodes would make direct recycling much more attractive.This study investigates the process conditions for direct recycling of aqueous processed NMC811 cathodes by varying parameters such as the amount of water, process time, and pH of the water bath. The recycled NMC materials are characterized by various techniques, including thermogravimetric and mass spectrometry (TG-MS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical measurements such as EIS and galvanostatic cycling.The results show that the ratio of water to NMC has a significant effect on the amount and type of surface species formed on the NMC811 surface. The ratio of NMC811 to water was varied between 1:1 and 1:50, representing possible water concentrations in the direct recycling process. The formation of surface species directly affects the electrochemical performance. Higher water concentrations were associated with higher charge transfer resistances and lower discharge capacities. TG-MS and XPS measurements identified the additional species as the cause. These were mainly transition metal carbonates and hydroxides.In addition, by adding aluminum foil to the water-NMC mixture, the process conditions during the current collector detachment step within direct recycling are investigated. In the aqueous medium, the high pH of about 11.5 leads to the formation of aluminum-containing species due to aluminum corrosion. These species form a surface layer on the NMC particles, which limits the amount of Li leached, but also induces higher polarization. When aluminum corrosion is prevented by adding acid to regulate the pH, the material leaches more Li but also has less polarization. Overall, the importance of controlling the process conditions during aqueous and direct recycling is demonstrated.