This case study investigates the potential graphite circular economy within the lithium-ion battery industry, intending to create sustainable management of graphite waste streams. The improper handling of graphite as waste amplifies the carbon footprint and incurs additional costs for battery recyclers. Unlike cathode materials in batteries, graphite regeneration into battery-grade material has not beenindustrialized. Therefore, the study investigates recycling and other alternative approaches to obtain the circularity of graphite. The research explores downcycling, recycling, and upcycling business modelsfor graphite from lithium batteries. With the aim to maximize value and minimize efforts and associated costs. As per methods, an exploratory qualitative method was employed with the data mainly collected through interviews with actors in the graphite sector and recycling technologies. The findings showeconomic viability, feasibility, market dynamic, and regulatory aspects as crucial considerations for the decision-making of battery recyclers. Given the novelty of the material, evaluating technical feasibility through research and development requires coordination with potential partners. Several potential customer options, including graphene applications, steel and refineries, and refractory products, are proposed, each involving a respective business model. Furthermore, the study suggests diversifying partners and establishing partnerships with material receivers as a short-term strategy while awaiting advancements in recycling and upcycling technologies.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:uu-507070 |
| Date | January 2023 |
| Creators | Fadyl, Said |
| Publisher | Uppsala universitet, Institutionen för geovetenskaper |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
| Relation | Examensarbete vid Institutionen för geovetenskaper, 1650-6553 ; 605 |
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