The Lifecycle of a Battery: From Manufacture to Recycling
Batteries are ubiquitous in modern life, powering everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. Understanding the lifecycle of a battery—from its manufacture to its eventual recycling—is crucial for comprehending both the environmental impact and the economic opportunities associated with these energy storage devices. 1. Manufacturing Phase The lifecycle of a battery begins with its manufacture. The process varies depending on the type of battery but generally involves several key steps. For instance, lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles, start with the extraction and processing of raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite. These materials are then refined and transformed into electrode materials, which are crucial components of the battery. The manufacturing process also includes assembling these materials into cells and modules, which are then packaged into battery packs suitable for different applications. This phas...