Empowering the Future: Refurbished Li-ion Battery Application and Lithium-Ion Battery Life Cycle Assessment

The world is racing towards electrified mobility—from scooters and motorcycles to electric buses, trucks, and even airplanes. At the heart of this revolution is the lithium-ion battery, a powerhouse that enables sustainable energy storage for electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy grids, and consumer electronics. However, with the surge in demand for EVs—projected to rise by 35% in 2023 alone—comes an inevitable wave of retired batteries. Analysts predict that by 2030, retirements could exceed half a million vehicles annually, translating to over 2 million metric tonnes of batteries per year.

The question arises: How do we manage this massive influx of end-of-life batteries sustainably? At LOHUM, we believe that the answer lies in innovation and responsible lifecycle management—through Refurbished Li-ion Battery Application and lithium-ion battery life cycle assessment.

The Growing Need for Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recycling lithium-ion batteries is crucial not just for environmental reasons but also for resource optimization. These batteries contain valuable minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese, which are critical for the clean energy transition. Despite this, only about 5% of lithium-ion batteries are recycled globally, compared to the 99% recycling rate of lead-acid batteries.

The disparity is rooted in the complexity and cost of lithium battery recycling. Lithium is highly reactive, making the process delicate and demanding specialized recycling facilities. However, ignoring this issue is not an option. With EVs, solar grids, and energy storage solutions rapidly expanding, the demand for lithium is set to outpace mining capabilities. Establishing new mines is both costly and environmentally taxing, often leading to depleted water resources and polluted ecosystems.

This is where LOHUM steps in—not just as a recycler but as a leader in lithium-ion battery life cycle assessment. We aim to optimize every stage of a battery's life, from initial application to second-life usage and, eventually, recycling.

Refurbished Li-ion Battery Application: Extending the Lifecycle

At LOHUM, we are reimagining the life of lithium-ion batteries through Refurbished Li-ion Battery Application. Most EV batteries are considered "end-of-life" when their capacity drops below 80% of their original power. However, that remaining 80% is still substantial for less demanding applications. Through refurbishment, these batteries are repurposed for uses like:

• Stationary energy storage for solar power systems.

• Backup power for telecommunications and IT infrastructures.

• Grid stabilization to enhance energy efficiency.

This second-life usage not only extends the lifecycle of the battery but also reduces the demand for freshly mined materials. In fact, batteries repurposed for stationary energy storage can last an additional 6 to 10 years, contributing significantly to sustainability goals.

LOHUM’s innovative refurbishment process involves:

1. Discharging and Safety Checks: Ensuring the battery is fully discharged and evaluated for safe handling.

2. Module and Cell Assessment: Identifying viable cells for repurposing.

3. Reconditioning and Reassembly: Assembling functional cells into new configurations suitable for secondary applications.

This model is a testament to LOHUM's commitment to lithium-ion battery life cycle assessment, optimizing every phase for maximum efficiency and minimum waste.

The Economics and Environmental Impact of Recycling

The economic incentive for lithium battery recycling is compelling. The three most expensive ingredients in a battery—cobalt, nickel, and lithium—represent nearly 50% of the total manufacturing cost. Global price volatility, sometimes fluctuating by 300% in a single year, adds even more pressure to find sustainable sources of these materials. Recycling not only helps stabilize costs but also reduces dependency on mining, which is often linked to conflict zones and harmful environmental practices.

LOHUM’s process involves:

• Pyrometallurgy and Hydrometallurgy: For material recovery through high-temperature melting and chemical dissolution.

• Direct Recycling Techniques: Retaining the cathode's structural integrity to reduce the need for energy-intensive refining.

In recent advancements, direct recycling methods have shown promise by refurbishing the cathode without breaking it down entirely, resulting in better battery performance and faster charging times. This method preserves the engineered structure of the cathode, making it as good as, if not better than, newly manufactured materials.

Policy and the Path Forward

The importance of sustainable recycling is increasingly recognized by governments. States like California are working on policies to ensure 100% of EV batteries are recycled or reused. At LOHUM, we are aligned with these global sustainability goals, leading the charge with innovative recycling technologies and efficient life cycle assessment.

Our approach to lithium-ion battery life cycle assessment is not just about recycling—it's about building a circular economy. With state-of-the-art technology and a forward-thinking mindset, LOHUM is redefining what it means to manage battery life sustainably.

LOHUM: Pioneering the Circular Economy of Lithium-Ion Batteries

At LOHUM, we are not merely recyclers—we are sustainability innovators. Our commitment to Refurbished Li-ion Battery Application and thorough lithium-ion battery life cycle assessment enables us to extend the life of valuable materials, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to the global push for cleaner energy.

By closing the loop on lithium-ion battery usage, LOHUM is empowering the shift towards electrified mobility with sustainable solutions that are not just good for business but essential for the planet.

Visit us at: Lithium-ion battery reuse value