Lithium-ion batteries are the most commonly used batteries in the world, with 80 percent of electronics containing them, including electric vehicles (EVs). LIBs have gained notoriety for their explosive nature and are considered hazardous waste, making responsible disposition crucial. EVs have become a popular choice in recent years. Professionals in the industry are preparing for a ‘retirement tide’ as batteries in the first batch of EVs start to deteriorate. EV batteries are larger and more challenging to dispose of, but IT asset disposition (ITAD) providers ease the burden with electronic recycling services.
Projected Spike in E-Waste from EV Batteries
A recent overview of the global lithium-ion battery recycling landscape revealed that North America’s capacity to process a certain amount of lithium-ion batteries per year is insignificant against the projected growth of new manufacturing. Consulting and research firm Deloitte and a division of the American Chemical Society project an upcoming spike in batteries entering the waste stream according to a recent report titled, “Lithium-ion battery recycling market and innovation: Trends for a greener future.” The report highlights the need for battery processing capacity expansion due to increased EV adoption.
“Since the performance of the lithium battery will gradually deteriorate with the increase of use time, the average service life of EV batteries ranges from 5 to 8 years,” the report states. “Therefore, the first batch of EV batteries put into the market are ushering in a ‘retirement tide.’”
Lithium-Ion Battery Challenges
Like other batteries, LIBs will not last forever, and their explosive nature makes them more difficult to dispose of. These batteries undergo self-discharge, and if this process is not controlled, it can lead to a thermal runaway, also known as ‘venting with flame.’ A damaged cell can allow impurities to penetrate, leading to a significant electrical shortage. During a thermal runaway, the heat from a failed cell can spread to the next one, making it also thermally unstable. One of the most common factors of battery fires stemming from cell penetration is battery damage, which can happen anytime. Overheating can cause battery swelling, eventually leading to a battery fire. LIBs can be extremely dangerous anywhere when damaged, mainly when not disposed of correctly.
EV Battery Disposal with ITAD
The safest and most responsible method for electronic waste disposal, including batteries, is recycling through a professional disposition service. HOBI is an R2v3, RIOS, and IS0 14001 certified IT asset management and disposition enterprise with more than 30 years of experience in the waste disposal industry. Our trained professionals undergo training and take special precautions when handling lithium-ion batteries during battery removal. HOBI prioritizes the safety of employees with fire safety practices and special tools during the disposition process.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.