Framework for Environmental and Economic Assessment of Process Innovations in Battery Cell Production: A Case Study on Induction Drying

Assessment of process innovations in battery cell production requires environmental and economic metrics, especially given the energy-intensive and interdependent nature of processes along the process chain. Existing assessment methods lack a standardized framework to consistently compare improvements across innovations and production scales. To address this lack, this work introduces a framework for quantitatively assessing key performance indicators and facilitating systematic benchmarking. Applied to a case study on induction drying in electrode production, the framework shows a 32.73 % reduction in energy demand per coated square meter at the coating and drying stage, alongside corresponding reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and costs. Recommendations for production planning adjustments are proposed to address potential bottlenecks, providing a structured foundation for sustainable manufacturing investments.