More emphasis needed on recycling and reuse of Li-ion batteries, says new paper

NEW YORK (Scrap Monster) : A new paper in the ACS journal calls for more emphasis on recycling and reuse of Li-ion batteries.

According to the new paper titled “Potential Environmental and Human Health Impacts of Rechargeable Lithium Batteries in Electronic Waste”, published in the American Chemistry Society (ACS) journal “Environmental Science & Technology “, the discovery of potential environmental and human health effects from disposal of millions of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries each year has led scientists to recommend stronger government policies to encourage recovery, recycling and reuse of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery materials.

The paper by Oladele A. Ogunseitan and colleagues points out that the sales of Li-ion batteries worldwide is fast approaching $8 billion per annum with its increased use in a wide range of equipment from smart phones to jetliners. The life span of Li-ion batteries is too short, thereby contributing largely to the electronic waste of the world. The study attempted to see whether disposal of Li-ion batteries would lead to emission of potentially toxic materials that can cause danger ot environment and health of living beings.

The scientists state that upon evaluation using standardized leaching tests, hazard assessment models and other methods, it was found that Li-ion batteries from cell phones would meet federal government definitions of hazardous waste because of lead content. On the other hand, California standards would categorize them as hazardous due to cobalt, copper and nickel content. The report signifies the need for stronger government policy at the local, national, and international levels to encourage recovery, recycling, and reuse of lithium battery materials.