As a consequence of most modern devices having batteries, e-waste is also increasing at an alarming rate. One way to reduce e-waste is to recycle batteries — where the process usually involves collecting, sorting, preparing, then recycling and recovering materials. Read on to discover why battery recycling is an important part of living a sustainable life and what processes these batteries undergo before they are given a new life.
As we become more dependent on our electronic devices, both single-use and rechargeable batteries will continue to play a crucial role in powering our lives. However, with convenience also come consequences, as the amount of electronic waste (e-waste) is also increasing exponentially. To that end, we must recognise the responsibility that each one of us has in proper disposal and more importantly, why it is important to recycle batteries.
In this article, we will explain how batteries are recycled and explore the steps involved in the battery recycling process. So strap yourselves in and come on a journey with us to unravel how battery recycling works and why it is an important process for a sustainable future.
Why Is Recycling Batteries Important?
Hazardous materials found in common types of batteries can be highly dangerous to both humans and the environment. Thus, there is a need to properly dispose of them to avoid environmental risks. Responsible battery recycling ensures the safe handling of these substances, protecting our environment and conserving resources in the process.
Battery Recycling Process
There are several steps when it comes to battery recycling and even different techniques for different battery types. Read on to find out more about the processes involved.
1. Collection & Sorting
The first stage in battery recycling is collecting and sorting used batteries. When it comes to this step, a well-organised system is paramount as different battery types (alkaline, lithium-ion, etc.) require different handling processes to prevent cross-contamination. To that end, battery recycling programs are a great start if you’re looking to get into the practice. These programs offer various collection methods like drop-off locations, curbside pickup, and dedicated recycling centres so you can pick whichever is more convenient for you.
2. Preparing Batteries for Recycling
Before the collected batteries can be recycled, they must first be prepared according to their type and how they do this is by using battery processing facilities. These facilities play a crucial role here as they are equipped with specialised machinery and tools to handle the dismantling and recycling of batteries.
First, the external components of the battery like the casings, labels, and plastic parts are removed. At the end of the process, the core components of the battery materials will be exposed and from there, the batteries are carefully sorted once more according to their type to ensure efficient recycling of the diverse materials present in different kinds of batteries.
3. Recycling Techniques for Different Battery Types
Once the batteries have been stripped and sorted, the recycling process can begin. In this case, the two most common battery types are alkaline and lithium-ion batteries — and how you recycle each one depends on the specific type.
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Alkaline Batteries: These batteries are often found in common household appliances. The process starts with mechanical separation to extract valuable metals like steel, zinc, and manganese from the battery’s core. Then, chemical leaching is used to recover the zinc and manganese by using a weak acid solution to dissolve the remaining materials in the battery. This step allows the chemicals to be recovered in a form that is suitable for reuse in new batteries.
- Lithium-ion Batteries: This type of battery has become more commonplace in recent memory and can be found in an extensive range of devices including smartphones and electric vehicles. The recycling process includes mechanical shredding to break it down into smaller pieces. This is followed by the hydrometallurgical process to separate valuable metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel from the other materials. Additionally, pyrometallurgy is employed to recover certain metals from the remaining battery materials.
4. Recovering Valuable & Recyclable Materials
Once the recycling techniques have been completed. The recovery of valuable and recyclable materials can start. How this battery recycling stage works is by using various techniques like:
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Refining: Purify and separate recovered materials to ensure that the recycled materials meet the required standards for reuse in various industries, including battery manufacturing.
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Purification: Used to remove impurities from recovered metals and electrolytes to enhance quality and recyclability. The purified materials can then be reintegrated into new battery production.
- Solvent Extraction: a method used to separate and recover specific metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel from the battery components.
Battery Recycling for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Recycling batteries is more than just a fad; it is an important component to ensure a sustainable future. By understanding how they recycle batteries, we can understand why responsible disposal and recycling is a necessity.
GP Batteries is committed to its sustainability efforts by reducing waste during the battery manufacturing process and by using more recycled materials in both the batteries and their packaging. By choosing GP Batteries, you can support our efforts to protect the environment for a brighter future.
