Structural Composition and Disassembly Techniques for Efficient Recycling of Waste Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium batteries represent a significant energy storage technology, with a wide range of applications in electronic products and emerging energy sectors. Concurrently, the high-value recycling and utilization of waste lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has emerged as a prominent area of research. This review commences with an examination of the structural composition, operational methodology, and inherent challenges associated with the recycling process of lithium-ion batteries. Subsequently, the study conducts a comprehensive examination of the recycling technologies employed in the processing of waste lithium-ion batteries over the past few years. This encompasses an in-depth analysis of both primary treatment methodologies, including disassembly, discharge, and classification, as well as advanced treatment techniques such as pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, bio metallurgy technology, and direct regeneration, specifically tailored to LIBs. In addition, this article introduces several process strengthening technologies for traditional treatment methods, identifies current research limitations, and proposes recommendations for the future recycling and reuse of waste lithium-ion battery cathodes.