The use of mobile devices has become a worldwide standard in recent years. Today, many people can’t imagine their lives without a laptop or a smartphone. The widespread use of mobile devices has led to the dynamic development of the secondary lithium-ion battery market. Technological development forces, however, to take more effective measures in the area of recovery, processing and reuse of used batteries.

How have lithium-ion batteries revolutionized the battery market?

Secondary lithium-ion batteries have almost replaced traditional lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries on the market. They are lighter and more efficient. They are also characterized by shorter charging times and a longer service life.

Lithium-ion secondary batteries consist of an anode (graphite), cathode (metal oxides), electrolyte (lithium salt solution in organic solvents), separator, plastic foil and steel housing. Batteries of this type are used in numerous applications. They are used in electronics (smartphones, tablets, laptops, cameras), transport (cars, scooters, electric bikes), medicine (medical equipment).

According to estimates, the value of the global market for secondary lithium-ion batteries in 2018 amounted to USD 37.4 billion, and in 2024 it is expected to increase even to USD 92.2 billion [1]. Poland is one of the main producers of batteries in the European Union.

Battery recycling – how does the market respond to the needs of the environment?

The technological revolution that is taking place before our very eyes is a big challenge for the environment. The intensive development of the battery industry is associated with a growing amount of used batteries ending up in the trash can. Secondary lithium-ion batteries can be recycled. Already in 2019, the value of the recycling market for such batteries was estimated at USD 1.5 billion. According to forecasts, its value in 2025 will amount to USD 12.2 billion, and in 2030 even USD 18.1 billion [2]. Currently, the recycling efficiency is close to 50%, but better methods of battery recovery are still being researched. Heavy metals (cobalt, nickel, copper) and steel are primarily recovered from lithium-ion batteries. Batteries usually undergo a mechanical treatment first and, after separating them into different fractions, thermal or chemical processes.

Battery replacement – a way to extend the life of your laptop

When a battery loses its performance, many users wonder if a laptop can run without a battery. Although it is possible to work on the power supply itself, it often risks losing valuable data and significantly reduces the possibility of using the computer outside the home. A laptop without a battery becomes non-functional. However, instead of buying a new device, it is better to replace only the battery. The use of replaceable Green Cell batteries allows a laptop with good parameters (e.g. post-leasing equipment, which is offered by Precio.pl during the second edition of the “Green Direction” campaign) can work efficiently for many years to come.

What if the laptop does not start up after replacing the battery? This is not necessarily due to a faulty battery, but due to incorrect installation.

What to do with used batteries?

In the face of the global ecological crisis, it is very important to take measures to support recycling also by users and producers of computer equipment. The battery in an office laptop or smartphone should never end up in the bin with other waste. Heavy metals in batteries pose a serious threat to the environment and people. They contribute to the contamination of soil and groundwater, and consequently to adverse changes in ecosystems, food contamination and health problems for humans and animals. However, when properly recovered and processed, they constitute a valuable industrial material.

What to do with old batteries so they do not contribute to harming the environment? Instead of throwing them away, it's better to just give them away or replace them. It can be done in selective municipal waste collection points, offices, schools, computer stores, computer services and even supermarkets. You can also return a used battery when buying a new one.

Batteries are considered hazardous waste, so care should be taken when storing and transporting them. Incorrect storage may lead to an explosion or leakage of the electrolyte. Secondary lithium-ion batteries should not be exposed to temperatures above 30°C and below 5°C. Store them away from direct heat sources (heaters, windows) and metal objects, in dry places out of the reach of children. Batteries should also be kept away from flammable materials.

Also, do not keep different types of batteries in the same compartment. It is best to use plastic containers for the storage of batteries. To prevent leakage, deformation of cells or short circuit, the batteries must be protected against shocks and falls during transport.

The text was created as part of the Green Direction campaign organized by North, Precio and Green Cell. You can read more about the assumptions of the campaign here.

Sources:

1. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/lithium-ion-battery-market-49714593.html

2. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/nanophotonics-advanced-technologies-and-global-market-125.html