Nickel and cadmium have been running the world for decades. At a time, these batteries were considered the most suitable and portable power source for automobiles and wireless devices. Later on, during the early 90s, lithium-ion emerged as an alternative that gave a head-to-head fight to the traditional nickel/cadmium battery.
The initial phase of the lithium battery was started in 1912, and in 1970, the non-rechargeable lithium battery came into the commercial market. People opted for this form of energy due to the abundance of this element in nature and its high electromagnetic nature.
The demand for lithium batteries has risen rapidly, and natural sources are bound to fulfill complete needs. Hence, the concept of lithium battery recycling has been introduced.
Li-ion battery recycling can be beneficial for preserving rare to rarest materials such as iron, nickel, cobalt, etc. These materials can be reused for several years by performing chemical processes. Apart from the commercial benefits, these batteries can be used to preserve nature.
Numerous harmful chemical toxins present in these batteries may later contaminate the environment. So, it is far better to recycle lithium batteries rather than compromise with nature. Although the recycling industry has increased, adopting these elements is still limited.
What Is the Use of Second Life Lithium-ion Batteries?
Unlike other batteries, lithium batteries also have a life span; after completion, the battery is no longer suitable for its original use. Although, the battery has the potential to serve other devices or appliances. Hence, using the used lithium-ion battery is known as Second Life.
For example- After the completion of the life span, some batteries are used in the solar power plant or other stationary devices.
Extension of the life of a battery may reduce the use of carbon pollutants from the environment and enhance the use of renewable energy in the environment. It also reduces the prices of electric vehicles as it converts the disposal cost to the residual value. According to the reports, the EV industry will manufacture 60,000 tons of lithium batteries by 2030. However, after consumption or used for the primary objective, these batteries will be later used for another stationary purpose.
Why use second-life batteries?
With the rapid growth in the market of electric vehicles, the market for second-life batteries will also rise. As per the reports, the USA is going to be the largest market for second-life lithium batteries. After 7-11 years in an electric vehicle, the Li-ion battery used in the EVs is supposed to retain more than 2/3rd of their usable energy storage. As per the condition, the EV batteries can deliver the supplementary 5-8 years of services in an alternative or secondary device.
The capacity of a lithium battery to retain and discharge electricity degrades with the use and passing of time. Excessive utilization of the maximum potential of battery rapid discharge and charge cycle and high-temperature exposure for a long time reduces the performance of the battery. In such a scenario, these batteries are used as a second life battery for other devices such as solar cells, home appliance, etc.
Benefits of Used Lithium-ion Batteries
Batteries play a crucial role in the energy supply chain, and they are essential for competitive, effective, and efficient electrification of the solutions in various parts of the world. The recovery of the material from the lithium battery has numerous environmental and economic benefits. Giving a second life to the batteries and using them in different ways can provide you with various commercial benefits. It is essential to reduce, reuse and recycle the batteries and storage while doing projects.
Commercial Scope of Recycled Lithium-ion Batteries
In the upcoming time, the electric vehicle market will expand, accelerating the lithium battery’s need. In such scenarios, lithium battery recycling might be a game changer. The industry of lithium battery recycling will have a fantastic opportunity to gain huge market capitalization. The recycled lithium battery can be used to retain two-thirds of its remaining energy.
Due to global warming and environmental degradation, the automobile industry is switching toward sustainable options. The widespread use of EVs is raising the demand for the Li-ion battery worldwide. One of the most challenging hurdles in opting for the lithium battery is the price and availability. In such scenarios, lithium battery recycling can be one of the best alternatives to save the environment and your pocket.
BatX Energies is one of the leading organizations that provides lithium battery recycling services across India. BatX Energies has the vision to deliver a cost-effective, high-quality, sustainable energy source by decreasing carbon emissions and improving the quality of human life.