How research & innovation ramp up Li-ion Battery recycling

The rapid growth of Li-ion Batteries (LIBs), especially in the automotive sector, raises urgent concerns regarding End-of-Life (EoL) management and the secure supply of Critical Raw Materials (CRMs), including lithium, cobalt, and nickel. To mitigate risks of resource scarcity and environmental impact, sustainable collection and recycling practices are essential to support the transition toward a circular economy, enabling the recovery of both metallic and non-metallic components. A zero-waste approach to LIB recycling is therefore emerging as a key priority. Industrial innovation and academic research are deeply interconnected in this field. Industry depends on scientific discoveries to scale up efficient recycling technologies, while academia is driven by challenges arising from industrial practice and regulatory demands. This reciprocal relationship accelerates the development of advanced recycling strategies capable of addressing technical and economic barriers. This review provides an overview of LIB recycling in Europe, focusing on the evolving legislative framework designed to regulate the proper management of spent batteries and promote the recovery of CRMs. Current industrial practices are discussed with particular attention to their limitations, alongside emerging academic solutions that could redefine the efficiency, sustainability, and economic viability of LIB recycling. • Overview on the main European regulations and directives on LIBs recycling • Discussion on the current industrial practices for the recycling of LIBs in Europe • Comprehensive list of the academic sustainable cutting-edge processes for LIBs recycling • Industry-Academia collaborations, current initiatives on LIBs recycling and future perspectives