Current status and outlook of recycling spent lithium-ion batteries

As the number of spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs) increases, their recycling has become of great significance in order to conserve resources and limit the environmental impact. This paper presents current methods for LIB recycling, including repurposing, hydro- and pyrometallurgical recycling, and direct regeneration. The advantages and disadvantages of each technique are compared, and remaining issues are analyzed. Representative examples are given to show the progress in the state-of-the-art. It concludes with a consideration of the future developments in LIB recycling. With the avalanche of spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs) approaching, their recycling is of great significance for the LIB industry and society. To address both economic and environmental concerns, this paper presents current status in establishing an industrial eco-chain, including repurposing utilization and recycling of end-of-life LIBs by means of hydro- and pyrometallurgical and direct regeneration. [Display omitted] •Current mainstream methods for LIB recycling, are introduced.•Representative examples are given to show the progress in the state-of-the-art.•Remaining issues regarding each recycling method are discussed.•The future recycling system of LIBs is proposed.