LI-ION BATTERY (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: In the recent month, Australia has witnessed a concerning trend with at least two significant lithium-ion battery fires.

• When a lithium-ion battery fire breaks out, the damage can be extensive. These fires are not only intense, they are also long-lasting and potentially toxic.
• The reality is that lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles are very safe. In fact, from 2010 to June 2023, only four electric vehicle battery fires had been recorded in Australia.

About Li-ion Battery

• Type: rechargeable battery.
• Battery Structure: Electrolyte and Electrodes in Li-Ion Batteries
• The Nobel Prize in Chemistry for 2019 was collectively granted to John B. Goodenough, M.M Stanley Whittingham, and Akira Yoshino in recognition of their contributions to the advancement of lithium-ion batteries.
• Applications: Electronic gadgets, Electric Vehicle, Tele-communication, Aerospace, Industrial applications

Li-ion Battery Recycling Technology

• This technology is used to extract valuable materials from discarded batteries in an efficient and environmentally friendly way.
• Indigenous Technology: To be capable of handling various types of discarded Li-ion batteries.
• Highly Efficient: Capable of extracting over 95% of Lithium, Cobalt, Manganese, and Nickel, yielding around 98% pure oxides/carbonates.
• Developed By: Centre of Excellence on E-waste Management.
• Mission LiFE: It is India’s global initiative to combat climate change and promote sustainable living.