Safe, economic recycling of lithium-ion batteries at scale

Background

As electric vehicles and storage grow, the volume of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries will rise sharply over the next decade. Collection, safe discharge, disassembly and recovery of lithium, cobalt and nickel are expected to become a major industrial and environmental problem.

Who is affected

Recyclers, vehicle makers, municipalities, informal waste sector

Existing approaches

Pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, direct cathode recycling (research), second-life storage.

Their limitations

Energy intensity, chemical waste, labour safety, varied cell formats, economics dependent on metal prices.

Desired outcome

Lower-energy, safer processes and designs for disassembly; business models for collection in India.

Success criteria

Recovery rates, energy per kg, safety record in pilot, cost per kWh recycled.

Evidence and references

• Note — Volume projections are forecasts, not measurements; look for the latest IEA and national data before relying on figures.

This problem statement is a forecast of a future or emerging need. Treat its scale and timing as predictions, not measured facts, and cite the scenario you rely on.

Participation

Eligibility

Open to all members

Timeline

Open-ended

Support or rewards

Recognition and contribution points; other rewards as stated per challenge

Confidentiality

Describe your approach at the level you are comfortable making public. Use Submit an Idea for anything you may want to protect.