Recycling and Prospects of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Queen Mary University of London Engineering School, NPU, 710129, Xi ‘an, China

^* Corresponding author: 1207849116gjy@mail.nwpu.edu.cn

Abstract

There is widespread employment of Lithium - ion batteries (LIBs) in various applications, covering portable electronics as well as electric vehicles, because of their high energy density and long cycle life. However, their improper disposal and the extraction of raw materials pose significant environmental and resource challenges. This review focuses on LIB recycling, a critical area for mitigating these issues. By comprehensively analyzing numerous relevant studies, it explores current recycling technologies, challenges, and future prospects. The results show that pretreatment, pyrometallurgical, hydrometallurgical, biohydrometallurgy, and direct recycling technologies all have their own benefits and drawbacks. Pretreatment involves sorting and dismantling, which is labor-intensive but essential for efficient recycling. Pyrometallurgical methods are effective for metal recovery but are energy-intensive and emit pollutants. Hydrometallurgical processes offer high recovery rates with lower energy consumption but generate chemical waste. Biohydrometallurgy, using microorganisms, is environmentally friendly but still in the experimental stage. Direct recycling aims to reuse battery materials with minimal processing, preserving their structure and reducing costs. LIB recycling also faces technical, environmental, and economic challenges, such as the complexity of battery designs, hazardous waste management, and high operational costs. However, technological innovations, policy support, and circular economy-based business model innovation hold promise for its sustainable development. In conclusion, establishing an efficient and sustainable LIB recycling system requires continuous improvement of recycling technologies, strengthened environmental protection measures, and exploration of innovative business models that promote resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.