Lithium-ion batteries contain hazardous PFAS chemicals that do not biodegrade and accumulate in the environment, posing a threat to human health and the environment. Researchers have found high concentrations of these substances near industrial sites and are warning of a global pollution problem.
The dangers of lithium-ion batteries
The PFAS problem in batteries
In the manufacturing process of lithium-ion batteries, chemical compounds of the PFAS class (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are used. These components increase fire resistance and improve battery conductivity. However, their use poses serious risks to the environment and human health.
Environmental consequences
PFAS have been called “forever chemicals” because of their ability to accumulate quickly in nature, humans and animals, persisting for thousands of years. Their presence has been linked to a variety of diseases, including liver problems, high cholesterol, low birth weight in newborns and chronic kidney failure.
Global spread of pollution
Scientists have detected high levels of PFAS in air, water, snow cover, soil and precipitation near factories producing these substances in the United States, Belgium and France. The problem has become global, given the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries. Recently, traces of PFAS have been detected in European and Chinese waterways, although the source of the contamination remains unknown.
Study of bis-perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides
The team focused on a specific type of PFAS, bis-perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides (bis-FASI). Analysis of more than a dozen lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and consumer electronics showed the presence of bis-FASI in varying concentrations.
Comparison with other hazardous substances
Researchers compare bis-FASI to "earlier notorious" chemicals such as PFOA (perfluorinated carboxylic acid), noting their extremely high resistance to degradation. Experiments demonstrate that even low concentrations of these substances affect the behavior of aquatic organisms. Despite the phasing out of PFOA production in the United States, it continues to contaminate drinking water. The concentrations of bis-FASI found by the scientists are significantly higher than the Environmental Protection Agency's guidelines for PFAS in drinking water.
Contamination Pathways
There are different ways bis-FASI can spread. Analysis of air emissions indicates the possibility of chemicals being transported over significant distances from production sites. They can also enter the environment through landfills, where most used lithium-ion batteries end up.
Recycling Problem
According to research, only about 5% of lithium-ion batteries are recycled. It is predicted that by 2040, the volume of lithium-ion battery waste could reach approximately 8 million tons.
Glossary
- PFAS - per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of chemical compounds used in in the lithium-ion battery industry
- Bis-FASI - bis-perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides, a specific type of PFAS found in lithium-ion batteries
- PFOA - perfluorinated carboxylic acid, a known toxic substance, compared to bis-FASI
- EPA - US Environmental Protection Agency, which sets standards for hazardous substances in water
- Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery widely used in electronics and electric vehicles
Links
Answers to questions
What role do PFAS substances play in lithium-ion batteries?
Why are PFAS called 'forever chemicals'?
What health risks are associated with exposure to PFAS?
How do bis-FASIs get into the environment?
What measures are being taken to address the problem of PFAS contamination from lithium-ion batteries?
Hashtags
Save a link to this article
Discussion of the topic – Lithium-ion batteries: the hidden threat of “forever chemicals” to the environment and health
The article reveals the problem of the use of PFAS in the production of lithium-ion batteries, their impact on the environment and human health, as well as the long-term consequences of the accumulation of these “forever chemicals”.
Latest comments
8 comments
Write a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are checked *
Isabella
This is simply shocking! 😱 I couldn’t even imagine that our favorite gadgets could be so dangerous for the environment. We urgently need to look for alternatives to PFAS in batteries!
Hans
I agree, Isabella. But let's not panic. Technology does not stand still, and I am sure that scientists are already working on safe substitutes. The question is how to speed up this process and make it cost-effective for manufacturers. 🤔
Amelie
Hans, you're right, but time is running out! 🕰️ We can't wait for scientists to find a solution. Maybe we should start by raising consumer awareness? For example, I am ready to pay more for environmentally friendly batteries.
Diego
Amelie, great idea! 👍 I would suggest launching a social media campaign with the hashtag #EcoBatteries. Let's tell people about the problem and support manufacturers who are looking for alternatives to PFAS. Who's with me?
Viktor
Oh, what nonsense you are talking about here! 🙄 Another panic out of the blue. We've been using batteries all our lives and nothing is wrong, we're alive and well. And now suddenly everyone has become an environmentalist. It would be better to do something useful than spread horror stories on the Internet.
Sophia
Viktor, I understand your skepticism, but the problem is real. 🌍 Maybe instead of denial we should think about how we can contribute? For example, properly disposing of old batteries or supporting research into environmentally friendly technologies.
Lena
But I’m thinking, maybe we should turn to the experience of other countries? 🌎 For example, Sweden has long developed a battery recycling system. Maybe we should study their approach and adapt it for us?
Hans
Great idea, Lena! 💡 I heard that Japan also has interesting developments in the field of environmentally friendly batteries. Maybe someone knows the details? It would be great to combine the experience of different countries to solve this global problem.