Perspective Recycling for All Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries

All solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are expected to be the future for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, recycling aspects for ASSBs are underexplored and would be critical as supply/demand projections will eventually result in unprecedented amounts of disposed LIBs, especially from the automotive sector. The current state of LIB recycling is inadequate, and the incorporation of lithium-metal anodes and solid electrolyte chemistries in ASSBs will pose additional challenges. Therefore, recycling viability and waste management should have a guiding role in ASSB development toward commercialization. In this work, we touch upon the leading solid-state electrolyte chemistries, differences between ASSBs and conventional LIBs from a recycling aspect, and the viability of various recycling processes with respect to ASSBs. We further propose a general design for ASSB recycling, utilizing hydrometallurgy and direct recycling methods. Finally, we discuss the value of legislation and automation toward the realization of large-scale ASSB recycling, and future directions of study.