Reuse and Recycle of Electric Vehicle Batteries: A Review

Abstract

As the adoption of electric vehicles surges, there's a corresponding rise in the disposal of batteries, leading to heightened interest in recycling and reusing them. Waste battery recycling involves processing discarded batteries to recover valuable materials for reuse while reusing waste batteries involves preparing them for further use. There's a need for technological advancements and more robust policies in this domain. Globally, efforts are underway to establish systems for collecting waste batteries, often through labeling and producer responsibility programs. Additionally, standards for evaluating battery performance and safety are being developed, along with efficient transportation systems. The growing prevalence of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles will generate a substantial volume of spent batteries. Handling these batteries involves options like remanufacturing, repurposing, and recycling. Remanufacturing and repurposing extend battery lifespan, while recycling ensures materials are reintegrated into the supply chain. Various recycling processes exist, including pyro metallurgy, hydrometallurgy, and direct recycling, each with challenges and ongoing innovations. While current technologies aren't perfect, collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and governments can drive improvements in lithium-ion battery recycling, benefiting both the environment and the economy.