Lithium-Ion Batteries—Circular Economy-related Challenges at the End-of-Life and in Recycling

The ongoing shift to low carbon mobility schemes will significantly increase the deployment of lithium-ion batteries (LIB) in the future. In terms of the circular economy, the optimal and sustainable use of existing resources, on the one hand, and the closing of material cycles through suitable and efficient recycling processes, on the other hand, are inevitable. The article deals with the current problem areas and challenges along the value chain of LIBs at the end of their life cycle. In particular, it deals with aspects of pre-treatment and recycling. © 2021, The Author(s).