It has been a considerable amount of time since the concept of batteries was introduced. The initial batteries and the present state-of-the-art batteries have evolved in various aspects. However, one aspect that has remained unchanged is that all batteries still power applications used by humans in the same way. This newsletter aims to provide an understanding of the basics of battery-related issues. You might be wondering if batteries are so helpful and are aiding in combating climate change, then what is the problem? The answer lies within this newsletter. The biggest challenge that the entire globe is facing is, “What should be done with used batteries? How can they be recycled?”
Batteries have become an integral part of our lives, and we are highly dependent on them. From the wristwatches we wear to the cars we drive; our gadgets and equipment rely on batteries. However, the root cause of the issue lies in what happens to batteries when they are used. Are they recycled? And if so, to what extent?
Do you know what challenges are involved in battery recycling? Battery recycling has become a significant aspect of developing new technologies that can facilitate the recycling of used batteries. Since batteries are made from elements such as cobalt, nickel, lithium, and others, these elements need to be extracted from ores. Some of these ores are found on the Earth’s surface, while others are located deeper underground.
These elements are extracted and used to manufacture batteries. Therefore, every time new batteries are produced, the Earth’s surface needs to be excavated to obtain the raw elements. This continuous extraction has a negative impact on the environment. To minimize the extraction and reduce the environmental impact, it is crucial to recycle these elements.
Advantages of Recycling:
Amid the challenges of battery waste, recycling is the only viable solution we can envision. Many arguments suggest various solutions for battery waste, but what actions are we taking? How many organizations have initiated campaigns to recycle their battery waste? Do all companies recognize the advantages of recycling? Here are some advantages that should encourage individuals to consider starting their own battery recycling plant alongside their battery manufacturing plant.
Cost Impact: The primary advantage that business owners consider is cost. Under this consideration, three major advantages can be highlighted:
Reduced element procurement: Recycled elements from dead batteries can be utilized in the production of new batteries.
Energy consumption reduction: Battery recycling helps save energy.
Economic benefits: The need for mining and refining elements is eliminated, resulting in cost savings.
Challenges for Recycling:
As with any action, there are challenges and negative aspects that make battery recycling a bit complex.
Skilled manpower: Using any technology requires skilled experts. Battery waste recycling is a delicate task involving chemical reactions that only experienced individuals can handle. Therefore, hiring professionals who can manage the process is crucial. There is an urgent need for skilled manpower to run battery recycling plants.
Specialized equipment: Every technology requires specific skills and expertise. Only skilled individuals can handle the intricate process of recycling, where machines identify potential recyclable materials and separate them from those that are not required. Separate instruments or machines are necessary to operate this process.
The write-up is authored by Neeraj Kumar Singal, Founder, and CEO of Semco Group. He is passionate about Clean Energy and working on various projects to build a robust Lithium-ion ecosystem. One of his ventures, SEMCO Infratech is a solution provider of Lithium-ion cell manufacturing and pack assembly equipment. He can be reached at nks@semcoindia.com
