A hybrid disassembly framework for disassembly of electric vehicle batteries

Abstract

In a recent study, it was determined that the usage of Li-Ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) represent a huge portion of the overall usage. In order to foster a sustainable future, Li-Ion batteries in EVs generally undergo a disassembly during the recycling process, which is intended for secondary purposes or recover useful materials and components. However, the current disassembly process is significantly time consuming and expensive. Hence in this research, a disassembly framework is presented, which focuses on improving the disassembly efficiency. The framework consists of a hybrid disassembly workstation that utilizes modified automated robotic arms and a specialized tool to allow an improvement in the disassembly time. The framework focuses on optimizing several identified parameters. These parameters (Design, Safety, and Cost) were identified through a comprehensive review and analysis of the schematics and properties of conventional EV battery packs along with the disassembly procedures being currently in practice. Additionally, the framework also consists of a conceptualized disassembly procedure developed based on the potential improvements of the hybrid disassembly. The framework proposed would allow a 5-step reduction in the overall disassembly steps, and thus would be highly suited to be adopted in the EV disassembly industry.

Recycling of Lithium‐Ion Batteries—Current State of the Art, Circular Economy, and Next Generation Recycling

“…[196,285] There are several publications discussing the automation potential of battery disassembly. [285][286][287][288] For instance, Hellmuth et al identified a 46-step disassembly sequence for a 2017 Chevrolet Bolt battery and found that about one-third of the steps could be automated based on an assessment of the technical feasibility and necessity of automation. At present, fully automated disassembly by self-learning robots remains unrealistic due to the high complexity of some disassembly steps.…”

Roadmap for a sustainable circular economy in lithium-ion and future battery technologies

“…Current pack disassembly is complex but technoeconomic analysis shows how disassembly could be possible [115]. Hybrid disassembly protocols have also been suggested [116].…”

Current Trend of EV (Electric Vehicle) Waste Battery Diagnosis and Dismantling Technologies and a Suggestion for Future R&D Strategy with Environmental Friendliness

“…그 럼에도 폐배터리의 잔존 에너지로 인해 단락 등 급격한 방 전이 발생할 경우 감전 및 열폭주(thermal runaway) 등의 안전위험이 존재한다 5,35) . 열폭주는 그 자체도 문제지만 그 로 인해 배터리내 함유된 플라스틱, 바인더(polyvinylidene fluoride) 및 LiPF6(salt lithium hexafluorophosphate) 등 이 연소되어 메탄, 에탄, 프로판 등의 휘발성 가스 및 일산 화탄소 및 불산(HF) 같은 독성(noxious or carcinogenic) 가스가 발생되면, 작업자 안전 및 환경을 위협할 수 있다는 점도 유의할 문제이다 5,35,39) . 또한, 배터리내 불소화합물은 물과 접촉 시 환경과 인체 및 생태계의 건강에 또 다른 형 태의 악영향을 미칠 수 있다 5,39) .…”