Simple and efficient selective extraction of lithium from spent ternary lithium-ion batteries via oxidation/de-lithiation using NaClO

•A novel method was proposed for selective lithium extraction under near-neutral pH and oxidative conditions by using NaClO as oxidant.•NaClO was activated catalytically in situ and generated highly active, electrophilic oxygen species.•Approximately 92.54% of the lithium was extracted and the selectivity was >99%.•The cathode particles underwent phase transition and cracking after lithium extraction.•Leaching occurred under mild conditions (pH 7–8, room temperature) without additional energy, making this method attractive for application.