How to Dispose of Lithium Batteries

Batteries are used to store electrical energy which is used to perform various roles in different applications. For example, battery cells are used in computers, cameras, watches, and mobile phones among other applications. The regular lithium batteries are not rechargeable while the lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable. Due to the hazardous nature of lithium batteries, they should not be disposed of in recycle bins like usual trash. Disposing of the cells casually is dangerous because this pollutes the environment making it unsafe for plants and animals. For that reason, the lithium batteries should be disposed of properly so that the balance of the ecosystem is not adversely affected. The points explained below expound in details about how to dispose of lithium batteries.

1. Taking the Batteries to a Recycler Center

Lithium batteries should be taken to a recycling plant for disposal. In the recycling plants, the cells undergo complex chemical processes that retrieve the constituent compounds from them. The lithium element is extracted and used in the manufacture of more lithium batteries. In this manner, the lithium is disposed of in a safer way that does not threaten the environment in any way. 

2. Taking the Batteries Back to the Manufacturers

The lithium batteries once depleted can be taken back to the companies that manufacture them. In this manner, the batteries can be piled up in bulk then disposed of by the company in a safe way that will not put the environment at any risks of contamination or pollution. Most companies that manufacture lithium batteries have certified methods of waste disposal and these services should be utilized by people who want to dispose of their depleted lithium batteries.

3. Taking the Batteries Back to the Stores

In cases where the manufacturers are not nearby, the lithium batteries should be packed well then taken back to the shops where they were purchased from. Once the batteries are taken back to the stores, it will be easier and efficient for them to be taken back to the manufacturing companies for disposal.

4. Taking the Batteries to Research Centers

Some research facilities have means of neutralizing the toxicity of the lithium batteries before they can be used to conduct laboratory experiments. In this manner, the batteries will be discharged and utilized in a way that will not threaten the environment. Therefore, one should research online about a research facility or a community center nearby that could be needing the lithium batteries.

5. Requesting for a Pick Up From the Government

In scenarios where the lithium batteries are to be disposed of in large amounts, the government should be contacted to come and handle the situation. Before the batteries are loaded to the garbage collection truck, their terminals should be covered with insulating tape to minimize the chances of short circuits which can result in explosions while on transit. It is important to note that it is always advisable that the batteries should be fully discharged before they are disposed to minimize the chances of fire outbreaks and explosions.

In summary, proper disposal methods should always be adopted to ensure that the environment is maintained in its healthy and stable state. Furthermore, understanding how to dispose of lithium batteries is essential because lithium is a hazardous substance should it seep in the soil in large quantities without being controlled.