A Review of Repurposing Lithium-ion Batteries for Household Applications

Abstract

As global sales of electric vehicles are rising rapidly; vast amounts of end-of-life batteries are expected to need treatment in foreseeable future. Using second life batteries in lower demanding applications, could prolong the life of Lithium-ion batteries (LiBs), and in turn provide economic and environmental benefits. The household context is seen as a potentially huge market for second life batteries. This study tries to better understand the current state of repurposing batteries for household applications, by investigating 1) proposals for household applications, as well as their current market availability, 2) what are considered the main barriers for further commercial repurposing of EV LiB batteries, and 3) how design can contribute to extend the lifetime of EV batteries within household contexts. Findings indicate that repurposing LiBs for household applications proves to be technically feasible, provides environmental benefits. Several market offerings have been identified. Through the literature analysed, it is found that repurposing LiBs for household applications has mostly been investigated from a technical, economic, and business model perspective. Contributions addressing the end-user perspective remains a paucity – an important stakeholder within the household context

A Review of Repurposing Lithium-ion Batteries for Household Applications