Study on the Battery Chemical Elements Recycling Possibilities

The recycling of car batteries has become a crucial issue in the current context of the transition to electric vehicles. The authors summarise the most critical chemical elements mining and use trends in battery production. Additionally, the issue of the distribution of cobalt, a key material in battery manufacturing, raises ethical and environmental concerns, particularly regarding mining practices in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While traditional lead-acid battery recycling methods are well understood and applied, the appearance of lithium-ion batteries poses new challenges. Indeed, the recycling of lithium batteries presents technical and economic difficulties due to the complexity of the processes and the associated costs. The authors present battery recycling options. Therefore, sustainable recycling practices must be highlighted to ensure the preservation of the environment and promote a circular economy. This research underscores the urgent need for sustainable recycling practices in the context of battery production and use trends.