The recycling rate of waste lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has shown significant improvement in recent years, influenced by various factors such as the advancement of recycling technologies, the processing capabilities of recycling enterprises, and the types and quantities of waste batteries.
At an industry level, the rapid expansion of markets like new energy vehicles (NEVs) has resulted in a growing number of waste LIBs, driving the development of the recycling industry. Many enterprises have entered into waste LIB recycling, enhancing rates through technological innovation and equipment upgrades. Additionally, policy support has provided a strong foundation for the growth of the waste LIB recycling industry.
However, specific figures on recycling rates are challenging to provide due to data complexity and variations in capabilities across different regions and enterprises. Nonetheless, insights into current status can be gained from data released by authoritative institutions and enterprises.
Taking 2023 as an example, China's actual volume reached 623,000 tons while nominal capacity stood at 3.793 million tons per year. Although actual volume falls short of nominal capacity, it reflects gradual growth and expansion. With continuous technological advancements and policy incentives, further improvements are expected in future.
Furthermore, there are differences in rates among different types of waste LIBs. For instance,lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries enjoy a relatively higher rate due to material properties and market demand; nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries exhibit lower rates due to material composition complexity and associated challenges with recycling technologies.
Nevertheless,with technological advancements and market maturity,the overall recycling rate is anticipated to experience substantial improvements in future.