China's Battery Breakthrough: How Old EV Batteries Get a New Life
National Standards and High Recovery Rates
China has established 22 national standards to guide the management, dismantling, and testing of old electric vehicle (EV) batteries. These regulations enable companies to recover:
- Up to 99.6% of valuable materials like nickel, cobalt, and manganese
- 96.5% of lithium
This approach benefits both the environment and the economy.
Specialized Workshops in Tianjin
In Tianjin, old EV batteries are processed in specialized workshops. The process includes:
- Careful dismantling
- Crushing
- Purification
This method recovers over 95% of lithium, which is then transformed into new battery materials, giving these batteries a second life and reducing waste.
Global Standards and Safety Measures
China is also working on creating global standards for battery recycling. A national technical committee, led by top experts, is developing guidelines for batteries used in:
- Vehicles
- Ships
- Energy storage systems
This committee is helping China play a significant role in shaping international rules for battery recycling.
One important step China has taken is banning the use of old lithium batteries in electric bicycles to prevent fire risks and ensure proper recycling. The government is also introducing new safety standards for lithium batteries to make them safer and more sustainable.
Future Goals
With the number of lithium batteries in use reaching 1,300 GWh in 2024, China is expected to see a peak in battery retirements by 2026. By recycling and reusing these old batteries efficiently, China aims to be self-sufficient in lithium by 2040.