Addressing the challenges posed by the disposal of lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries requires sophisticated and effective recycling processes to ensure that valuable materials are recovered safely and efficiently.
Li-Ion batteries, essential for powering modern devices, pose significant disposal challenges. Despite the prevalent belief that recycling these batteries is rudimentary and inefficient, advanced mechanical processing systems demonstrate otherwise.
The process involves grinding the batteries to separate materials such as steel, copper, and plastic, resulting in a black mass that contains lithium, cobalt, nickel and other valuable elements.
While these procedures recover essential resources, the black mass is not exposed or recovered locally. Additionally, strict safety protocols are followed to mitigate environmental hazards.
The Recycling Crisis
Notwithstanding the critical need for recycling Li-Ion batteries, an alarming 90% of these batteries are not recycled globally, leading to millions of tons of waste each year.
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SA’s recycling challenge
In South Africa alone, an estimated 18,000 tons of lithium-ion batteries reach the end of their life annually, with most ending up in landfills or being incinerated.
This not only causes significant environmental harm but also results in the loss of valuable materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel that could otherwise be recovered and reused.
Misconceptions about recycling Li-Ion batteries are common, but there are active efforts to take on this challenge. Although recycling these batteries is costly and requires a significant volume to be viable, South Africa lacks the necessary volume for an in-house refinery.
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Efforts and technologies
Efforts are being made to address this significant issue by employing advanced recycling technologies to process tons of Li-Ion batteries each year. Through rigorous mechanical processing, valuable materials, including steel, copper, and plastic, are recovered.
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Overseas extraction and circular economy
The remaining black mass, containing critical elements like lithium and cobalt, is sent to specialised facilities overseas for further extraction. This approach helps mitigate environmental impacts and supports a sustainable, circular economy by reducing the need for new raw material extraction.
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Safety and compliance
Despite the challenges, there is a commitment to processing Li-Ion batteries and sending the resulting materials overseas for extraction and reuse. Safety is prioritised, as mishandling these batteries can be hazardous. Special vehicles and handling teams are employed to ensure safe logistics before processing.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
These operations comply with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, ensuring that all recycling activities are traceable and environmentally responsible.
This compliance underscores a commitment to transparency and sustainability, providing clients with detailed reports on the recycling process and its environmental impact.
Misconceptions
Regardless of the availability of effective recycling solutions, misconceptions persist within the industry. There is frustration in seeing the market suggesting there are no viable solutions for Li-Ion battery recycling when, in fact, comprehensive processes exist and are being utilised. Better communication and awareness are needed to bridge this gap.
Call to action
Businesses and individuals are urged to adopt responsible recycling practices. Proper disposal of Li-Ion batteries and electronic waste is crucial for protecting the environment and conserving resources.
Giulio Airaga | Director | Desco Electronic Recyclers | mail me |