Recycling Solid-State Batteries: Challenges and Innovations for Sustainable Energy Solutions

The increasing use of electric vehicles (EVs) has led to a growing demand for battery technology, particularly for lithium-ion and solid-state batteries (SSBs). This paper investigates the complexities and potential strategies for recycling SSBs, with a focus on electrolyte materials such as oxides, sulphides, and polymers. Given that conventional recycling methods are limited in their applicability to the unique components of SSBs, specific processes like hydrometallurgical and dissolution techniques show promise, especially for sulphide electrolytes. For oxide-based SSBs, dry processing proves more suitable due to their material characteristics. Multi-stream recycling systems that allow tailored treatment for different battery types are identified as optimal, as they enhance material recovery, yield, and economic viability. The study also discusses legislative and manufacturing considerations, advocating for standardized battery forms, increased collection rates, and energy-efficient production processes to support widespread SSB adoption. Finally, the paper emphasizes that to achieve a sustainable, closed-loop recycling process, further research is needed to assess SSBs’ full life cycles and adapt facilities to process emerging battery materials, like lithium-sulfur and sodium-ion technologies.