Battery Recycling: defining the market and identifying the technology required to keep high value materials in the economy and out of the waste dump

The accumulation of post-consumer non-Lead/Acid batteries presents a significant environmental risk, as these batteries contain materials unsuitable for disposal while also holding considerable potential value. This study aims to define the battery recycling market and identify the necessary technologies for reprocessing these batteries to effectively keep high-value materials in circulation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, yielding over 2500 relevant sources, and an analysis of patent records indicated 317 patents in the relevant technology domain. The core findings highlight that the main materials recovered from the batteries include metals such as zinc, manganese, nickel, cadmium, and iron, along with high-value materials like cobalt and silver. Different methods for separating these materials, employing various classification techniques such as density and electrostatics, were also explored. The results underscore the necessity for the development of efficient recycling systems that promote the safe reprocessing of batteries, returning valuable materials to society and minimizing environmental hazards. This research serves as a foundation for future advancements in battery recycling technology and the establishment of a sustainable battery economy.