Did you know that there is more than $73 billion worth of projects related to the production of lithium-ion batteries in the United States as of 2022? Lithium-ion batteries have gained a ton of traction over the past five years due to their incredible lifespan and storage capacity. The electric vehicle industry is dependent on these impressive batteries, but disposal is proving to be a dilemma.
A big question when it comes to the efficient use of resources and protection of nature is the best approach to take in order to recycle lithium-ion batteries. The right method will make creating future batteries easier while helping the environment.
The good news is that you’ve found the perfect guide to learning about the best ways to shred lithium-ion batteries that you’re finished with. Keep reading to learn more today!
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How to Recycle Lithium-Ion Batteries
Batteries of all kinds are difficult to dispose of in a safe and efficient manner. Recycling batteries makes a lot of sense since getting the resources to make new batteries is simpler and cheaper. Lithium batteries are difficult to dispose of, but there are steps that you can take to decrease the burden placed on Mother Nature and the tech industry.
Taking these small steps will make a difference in your community while reducing waste. Here’s a closer look at the proper process to start recycling lithium-ion batteries.
Safely Prepare Your Batteries
You have two options to consider when you start prepping your batteries for recycling: a bag or tape. If you opt to go with the bag then you’ll want to bag each battery that you’re planning to put through battery shredding. Use a clear plastic bag for the best results, and then place it in a storage container.
You can also prepare the battery by taping over the terminals. Non-conductive electrical tape and duct tape are both great options for this task. Always keep the label visible, and remember that you’re taking this step to prevent the leftover energy from creating a fire hazard.
Store Batteries
You’ll also want to store the batteries that you’re hoping to recycle prior to using the battery shredder on them. If you can’t start shredding them immediately then it is best to store your dead lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dark place. Bad things can happen when lithium-ion batteries get exposed to the elements or excessive amounts of heat.
Always use a plastic container to store your lithium-ion batteries. Metal containers collect too much heat to act as a safe storage option. You’re asking for fire from your batteries when you go with metal containers for storage.
Look for Bulging
It’s also a good idea to check the batteries for any bulges prior to starting the battery shredding process. If you see that the battery has a bulge to it then you’ll want to find the closest non-flammable material possible to place it in. Doing this will help to prevent a fire if something goes wrong with the battery’s core.
It’s also wise to keep the battery in a cool, dark location in your home if you see a bulge. The heat from the sun could be enough to cause a fire or a dangerous situation.
Know the Shelf Life
After you’ve discovered that your lithium-ion battery is in need of recycling, it’s best to get the task over with before six months pass. Waiting too long could result in a dangerous situation and it will make salvaging the battery close to impossible.
Don’t Use a Recycling Bin
One of the worst things that you can do when you’re looking to recycle lithium-ion batteries is to throw them in your recycling bin along with your glass and plastic items. Your lithium-ion batteries need to go through a battery shredder to ensure that they’re disposed of in a safe manner while salvaging valuable resources from the old batteries.
It’s also a great way to create an unnecessary fire hazard at your home or at the recycling facility. Avoid putting others in danger and remember not to place your batteries in the recycling bin. It’s always best to shred lithium-ion batteries.
Benefits of Recycling Lithium-Ion Batteries
Now that you know the proper process to use when you need to recycle lithium-ion batteries, it’s important to learn the benefits of using this method. Lithium-ion batteries use some valuable resources when it comes to their creation. It’s best to salvage what is left of those materials rather than destroy more of the planet.
Here’s a closer look at some of the big reasons why you need to consider using a battery shredder.
Recover Resources
Many of the resources used to create lithium-ion batteries are not renewable. This makes the recycling process that much more important as these batteries become more crucial to modern society. The metals that make a lithium-ion battery are not renewable, but they’re completely recyclable.
This means that you can continue creating new batteries with the waste of the old ones. Battery shredding allows for the safe and efficient disposal of your old batteries.
Protect the Environment
It’s also no secret that the materials in lithium-ion batteries are harmful when disposed of in the environment. Mercury is a big problem that comes with disposing of lithium-ion batteries in the wrong way. The release of mercury into the soil and the water table causes tons of issues for humans and nature alike.
Lead and cadmium are other dangerous pollutants that get released from lithium-ion batteries. Make sure that you help Mother Nature by taking the right steps to recycle lithium-ion batteries.
Start Making a Difference With Your Battery Shredder
Taking the right steps to recycle lithium-ion batteries is a win for your bank account as well as for the environment. Make sure that you store spent lithium-ion batteries in a cool, dark place before putting them through the battery shredder. Taking this step will help to preserve non-renewable resources while protecting the environment.
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