Raw Materials and Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Davies, S; Christensen, P; Holberg, T; Avelar, J; Heidrich, O

doi:10.1007/978-3-031-48359-2_9

Raw Materials and Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lookup NU author(s): Shannon Davies, Professor Paul Christensen ORCiD, Professor Oliver Heidrich ORCiD

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Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) powered by lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have quickly emerged as the most popular replacement for petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles. In the next 5–10 years, the LIB market is set to grow exponentially due to a push toward EVs by both policymakers and vehicle manufacturers [25]. Such a push will inevitably lead to an increase in demand for raw materials, which is of particular concern for critical raw materials (CRMs) such as lithium and cobalt which are of high economic importance [25]. Moreover, with a life span in EV of only 8–10 years, the LIB waste stream will increase considerably [39]. This is particularly important considering that, by 2025, the UK’s dynamic stockpile of spent LIBs could exceed 100,000 battery packs or 42,000 tons of LIB waste [39]. This chapter starts with a brief review and analysis of the value chain of LIBs, their supply risks associated with raw materials, as well as the global impacts of using these materials, in both their original and secondary usage. This is followed by a detailed description of the three existing recycling processes for LIBs and the material yield from each of these processes, as well as a discussion on the opportunities and problems that come with these recycling processes. We briefly discuss battery recycling legislation and describe some of the safety risks associated with the transportation, processing, and recycling of LIB. The primary risks of LIB fires and how to prevent the fires are highlighted. This chapter concludes by summarizing the key findings of this work. For more details on general circular economy considerations related with batteries, including reuse and second life, the reader is referred to Chap. 2 of this book.