Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Reuse

https://suvastika.com/lithium-battery-is-cheaper-than-tubular-battery-in-ups-inverter-usage/#:~:text=So%2C%20if%20we%20compare%20the,battery%20price%20of%20200%20Ah.&text=One%20must%20understand%20the%20backup,Acid%20batteries%20are%20obsolete%20today.

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Reuse

Safe recycling of lithium-ion batteries at the end of their lives conserves the critical minerals and other valuable materials that are used in batteries and is a more sustainable approach than disposal. Although there is not one path that all batteries take at the end of their lives, lithium-ion battery recycling usually follows a similar series of steps.

In the typical first step, consumer electronics, batteries, and battery-containing devices are collected by the retailer who sold the replacement item, by a storefront e-waste collector, or by a business that specializes in collecting other companies’ used electronics. Electric vehicle batteries may end up at a dealership or automobile mechanic shop, if the vehicle’s battery needs to be replaced, or at an automobile disassembler if the entire vehicle reached the end of its life. In all cases, batteries then need to be identified and sorted for proper recycling and may change hands several times in the process, getting shipped to other collection facilities before arriving at a facility that can process them. Larger battery packs, such as those from electric vehicles, could be partially disassembled at any time in this process into cells or modules to make transportation, storage, and processing easier.

Some battery packs or modules may also be evaluated for repair or reuse—either being put back into a device similar to their original one or being repurposed in a different type of product or application. For example, some companies are experimenting with repurposing used electric vehicle batteries to store excess electricity generated by solar panels. Battery packs that can be repaired may have one or more “bad” modules replaced before being put back into use in the original or other appropriate applications.

When a battery is sent for recycling after collection and evaluation, a common next management step is shredding. Depending on the size of the shredding equipment, part or all of the battery is shredded. In some cases, a portion of a device containing a battery may also be shredded. The batteries are either discharged to remove electricity before this step or are otherwise managed to prevent fires during shredding. Many battery recyclers are also accepting battery materials in the form of manufacturing scrap for processing.

The shredding operation creates a number of different streams, including the following:

• “Black mass”” (a granular material made up of the shredded cathodes and anodes of the batteries).
• Copper and aluminum foils (which held the anode and cathode material).
• Separators (thin plastic films).
• Other plastics.
• Steel canisters.
• Electrolyte.

Black mass contains the materials that can be further processed and made into new battery cathodes and anodes. Although the term “black mass” is commonly used, there are no industry standards for black mass. Depending on the batteries shredded and the type of shredding, there can be wide variation in the exact make-up and amount of liquid in this material. Black mass is frequently then sent to another facility that recovers the valuable metals (like cobalt, nickel, and sometimes lithium). Black mass may also be exported for this purpose. Other output materials, such as foils and steel canisters, may also be recycled through separate, dedicated pathways.

Although innovations are happening quickly in lithium-ion battery recycling, currently there are two main methods to recover the metals out of black mass:

1. A heat-based smelting process (pyrometallurgy).
2. A liquid-based leaching process (hydrometallurgy).

In some cases, the heat-based process can also be used to recover metals from batteries without an initial shredding step. Generally, smelting can recover cobalt and nickel, but it would take additional steps to recover other critical materials like lithium from the residue left behind. Recycling technologies that use leaching may be able to economically recover high amounts of cobalt, nickel, lithium, and manganese and several facilities are in development in the United States.

After smelting or leaching, the recovered metals must be processed further to be made into new batteries. At this point, the processing would look similar or identical to making battery components out of non-recycled metals.

In addition to the two main recycling techniques, some researchers and recyclers are experimenting at smaller scale with a technique called direct recycling in an effort to bring it to market. Direct recycling, sometimes called “cathode to cathode recycling,” saves energy by preserving the highly engineered cathode structure that is the most valuable part of the lithium-ion battery and reducing the amount of manufacturing needed to recycle these materials into a new battery.

Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling and Reuse

Reuse and repurposing are two similar, environmentally friendly alternatives to recycling or disposal of a lithium-ion battery that no longer meets its user’s needs or is otherwise being discarded. Battery performance degrades over time, but used batteries can still provide useful energy storage for other applications. For example, an electric vehicle battery that no longer holds enough energy to cover the range its owner desires could be reused as an electric vehicle battery for someone who requires less range from their vehicle, or it could be repurposed into a battery for storing energy from solar panels.

Reuse and repurposing options are still being developed, but could someday provide batteries a “second life” on a larger scale before they get recycled. This second life would benefit the environment by extending the useful life of the battery and decreasing resource demands for making new batteries.

Li Battery Safety Understanding the Risks and Best Practices

Due to their high energy density and rechargeability, lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized the way we power our devices. However, it is important to understand the risks and best practices for Li battery safety. From smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and power tools, they are ubiquitous. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential safety issues associated with these powerful energy sources.

https://lithiuminverter.in/uncategorized/importance-of-bms-in-the-lithium-battery/

Causes of Lithium Battery Failures

• Manufacturing Defects: Even the most rigorous manufacturing processes can’t completely eliminate the risk of defects. Microscopic impurities or flaws in the battery cell can create internal short circuits, leading to overheating.
• Physical Damage: Punctures, crushing, or exposure to extreme temperatures can compromise the battery’s internal structure. Damaged batteries are more prone to short circuits and thermal runaway.
• Overcharging: Overcharging a lithium battery beyond its designed capacity can put excessive stress on the cell, leading to instability and potential failure.
• Low Quality Chargers: Using low-quality or incompatible chargers that lack proper safety features can contribute to overcharging, internal damage, and increased risk of fire.
• Design Flaws: In some cases, the battery pack itself may have design weaknesses that make it more susceptible to problems. This is particularly an issue in applications where maximizing energy density can lead to compromised safety features.

The Dangers of Lithium Battery Fires

When a lithium battery fails, the most dangerous result is a fire, known as a thermal runaway:

• • Intense heat: Lithium battery fires can burn at extremely high temperatures, making them difficult to extinguish.
  • Toxic fumes: These fires release a variety of toxic and potentially flammable gases, posing a hazard to both people and property.

• Potential for Explosions: In severe cases, the pressure buildup inside a failing lithium battery can lead to explosions that spread the fire and cause further damage.

Prevention and Safety Tips

• Purchase from Reputable Sources: Choose batteries from well-known manufacturers with a reputation for quality and safety. Look for certifications from reputable standards organizations.
• Handle with Care: Avoid dropping, puncturing, or exposing batteries to excessive heat. Never submerge lithium batteries in water.
• Proper Charging: Always use the manufacturer-supplied charger or a compatible, high-quality charger designed for your specific battery type. Don’t overcharge batteries.
• Safe Storage: Store lithium batteries at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
• Observe and Inspect: Be alert to any signs of damage, such as swelling, leaking, or unusual odors. Discontinue use immediately if you notice anything odd.
• Responsible Disposal: Never dispose of lithium batteries in regular trash. Use designated recycling facilities or e-waste collection services.

In Case of Fire

• Evacuate: Leave the area immediately and call the fire department.
• Do Not Use Water: Water can react with lithium and make the fire worse. Use a Class D fire extinguisher if available, or smother with sand or dirt.

Staying Safe

By understanding the potential hazards, handling lithium batteries responsibly, and following safety guidelines, you can significantly minimize the risks associated with these powerful energy sources.

Li Battery Safety Understanding the Risks and Best Practices

Li Battery Safety Understanding the Risks and Best Practices

Li Battery Safety Understanding the Risks and Best Practices, power our modern world, from smartphones to electric vehicles. But with great power comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to safety. Let’s break down the risks and best practices for lithium battery safety:

Understanding the Risks:

• Fire and Explosion: Under abnormal conditions, lithium batteries can overheat, ignite, or even explode. This risk is increased by damage, defects, improper use, or extreme temperatures.
• Toxic Materials: Lithium and other components inside the battery can be hazardous if they leak.

Best Practices:

• Use and Charge Properly: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and using your devices. Never use a damaged charger or battery.
• Keep it Cool: Avoid extreme heat and direct sunlight when storing or using lithium batteries. Heat can accelerate degradation and increase fire risk.
• Spot the Signs of Trouble: Watch for signs of damage like bulging, leaking, discoloration, or excessive heat. If you see any of these, discontinue use and replace the battery.
• Recycle Responsibly: Don’t throw lithium batteries in the trash! Find a certified recycling center to dispose of them safely.

 

The Benefits of Replacing Gensets with Lithium-based Battery ESShttps://suvastika.com/category/diesel-generator/The Benefits of Replacing Gensets with Lithium-based Battery, Clean energy solutions are the priority of every Govt, and Su-vastika has always strived to make it happen. Su-vastika is a Government of India-recognized Star Export House in Gurugram, India. The company has recently announced the launch of its Electronic Genset, which is dubbed “Power on Wheels.” 

It is a pollution-free and much more cost-effective replacement for traditional diesel generators.

The company has installed its electronic genset in their Gurugram-based manufacturing facility as a real-life example, where it is successfully powering the entire factory. The installed electronic genset, which also serves as the best demo for the intended purpose, successfully runs loads of 100 KVA, including capacitive, resistive, and mixed loads.

One of the key features of Su-vastika’s Electronic Genset is its customization capabilities. The capacity can be increased or decreased per the individual’s needs. Even after the installation, the duration of its Electronic Genset can be increased or decreased by reducing the load or increasing the battery capacity. The lithium battery gets charged in 4 to 5 hours completely, so in case of intermittent power cuts, it charges quickly and is ready to give back up again.

Because Su-vastika’s Electronic Genset uses reliable and proven Lithium batteries, the life cycle of the battery is expected to last for 5 to 7 years, depending on the power cuts.

This Electronic Genset is super-clean, with no hanging wires It is completely safe, as there is no inflammable diesel to deal with or worry about electric shocks. It not only looks good but takes much less space which makes it suitable for even the tightest of corners.

https://lithiuminverter.in/uncategorized/advantages-and-disadvantages-li-battery-vs-tubular-battery-using-a-48v-solar-power-conditioning-unit-pcu-with-a-lithium-battery-compared-to-a-tubular-battery/

The Benefits of Replacing Gensets with Lithium-based Battery

Users can simply plug in and forget.  Su-vastika Electronic Genset can easily handle all your power needs for over a decade.

Over time, Suvastika’s Electronic Genset will be much more cost-effective than a diesel generator. 

Because no matter the load, a diesel generator will always use a set amount of fuel, while our Electronic Genset reduces the consumption when the load is decreased. Running on electricity charges takes one-fourth of the cost compared to diesel pricing for running the same load. With no maintenance required, it will keep adding to the savings for years.

This system can run on the solar as well by adding an MPPT Solar charge controller with the solar panels, and this system is designed to add Solar without making any changes in the system.

Su-vastika’s Electronic Genset will undoubtedly bring a massive shift in how we generate and store power.