Circularity of batteries

To achieve true circularity in batteries, it is crucial to establish infrastructure and processes that facilitate the collection and recycling of used batteries. This requires collaboration between manufacturers, consumers, and waste management systems to create a seamless flow of materials back into the production cycle. Additionally, innovations in battery design and technology play a significant role in enhancing circularity.

Harnessing the potential of batteries for stationary storage applications presents a promising avenue in advancing the principles of a circular economy. By repurposing used lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries from electric vehicles or consumer electronics for stationary storage, we can extend the lifespan of these energy storage units. This approach not only maximizes the value of the materials initially invested in battery manufacturing but also mitigates the environmental impact associated with the disposal of used batteries.

Incorporating retired Li-ion batteries into stationary storage systems not only reduces the demand for new raw materials but also addresses the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. The ability to store excess energy during peak production periods and release it when needed enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of renewable energy systems. This integration of retired batteries into stationary storage not only aligns with the circular economy principles but also contributes to the development of a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure. As the world seeks cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, the utilization of batteries for stationary storage exemplifies a practical application of circularity, fostering a more responsible and resource-efficient energy landscape.

In this thesis, the idea is to develop indicators/frameworks/methods for assessing circularity of the batteries.

The thesis will be carried out in collaboration with Easy To Trust AB.

Suggested reading

• Agrawal, T. K., Angelis, J., Thakur, J. R., Wiktorsson, M., & Kalaiarasan, R. (2021, November). Enabling circularity of electric vehicle batteries-the need for appropriate traceability. In 2021 IEEE International Conference on Technology Management, Operations and Decisions (ICTMOD) (pp. 1-6). IEEE.
• Thakur, J., de Almeida, C. M. L., & Baskar, A. G. (2022). Electric vehicle batteries for a circular economy: Second life batteries as residential stationary storage. Journal of Cleaner Production, 375, 134066.
• Mansuino, Milan, Jagruti Thakur, and Akshaya Lakshmi. "Turning the wheel: Measuring circularity in Swedish automotive products." Sustainable Production and Consumption (2023).

Academic supervisor:

Industrial supervisor: Mari Hellblom- Mari.hellblom@easytotrust.com and Dipti korde- dipti@easytotrust.com

Please feel free to contact us with your CV.