A Future Perspective on Waste Management of Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicles in Lao PDR: Current Status and Challenges

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become a hot topic worldwide because they are not only the best alternative for energy storage systems but also have the potential for developing electric vehicles (EVs) that support greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction and pollution prevention in the transport sector. However, the recent increase in EVs has brought about a rise in demand for LIBs, resulting in a substantial number of used LIBs. The end-of-life (EoL) of batteries is related to issues including, for example, direct disposal of toxic pollutants into the air, water, and soil, which threatens organisms in nature and human health. Currently, there is various research on spent LIB recycling and disposal, but there are no international or united standards for LIB waste management. Most countries have used a single or combination methodology of practices; for instance, pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, direct recycling, full or partial combined recycling, and lastly, landfilling for unnecessary waste. However, EoL LIB recycling is not always easy for developing countries due to multiple limitations, which have been problems and challenges from the beginning and may reach into the future. Laos is one such country that might face those challenges and issues in the future due to the increasing trend of EVs. Therefore, this paper intends to provide a future perspective on EoL LIB management from EVs in Laos PDR, and to point out the best approaches for management mechanisms and sustainability without affecting the environment and human health. Significantly, this review compares the current EV LIB management between Laos, neighboring countries, and some developed countries, thereby suggesting appropriate solutions for the future sustainability of spent LIB management in the nation. The Laos government and domestic stakeholders should focus urgently on specific policies and regulations by including the extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme in enforcement.

Environmental Aspects and Recycling of Solid-State Batteries: A Comprehensive Review

“…This concern stems from the potential environmental risks associated with improper disposal methods, such as landfilling and incineration [74]. These risks are particularly relevant for SSBs, which are gaining prominence due to their high energy density and potential applications in electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage [78]. SSBs offer advantages such as higher energy density, longer lifespan, and improved safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.…”

“…In addition to the direct environmental risks, landfilling and incineration of SSBs also lead to resource wastage [81]. These batteries contain valuable and scarce materials, such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese [78]. Disposing of SSBs in landfills or incinerating them means losing the opportunity to recover and reuse these valuable resources [82].…”

Dual Carbon Goal-Based Quadrilateral Evolutionary Game: Study on the New Energy Vehicle Industry in China

“…From a consumer aspect, Boguslavsky, Sharov and Sharova find that the use of green energy may not be eco-friendly, mainly due to the environmental pollution caused by the storage of electrical energy usually with the help of lithium compounds [ 27 ]. Moreover, the increase in demand for lithium batteries in pure EVs triggers the battery end-of-life problem [ 28 ]. There is a lack of relevant international standards to make uniform regulations on the management of used lithium batteries, while the extension of the manufacturers’ responsibility increases the after-sales cost [ 29 ].…”

Battery Technologies Comparison for Electric Vehicles

“…In (35) they concluded that only 1% to 3% of total passenger cars are electric today In (36) authors confirm that a customer willing to use an electric vehicle (EV) needs the vehicle to have shorter charging durations, lesser maintenance, and a cheaper cost of operation. (37) This review examines the latest technological advancements in Li-ion batteries for electric vehicle applications. The authors discuss the challenges and opportunities to improve the performance, safety, and durability of batteries.…”