A multi-dimensional indicator for material and energy circularity: Proof-of-concept of exentropy in Li-ion battery
Minerva Vierunketo1, Anna Klemettinen1, Markus A Reuter2
1Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16200, 00076 Aalto, Finland.
Abstract:
Recycling processes are an important stage in the raw material life cycle, as it enables the transition from a linear economy into a circular one. However, the currently available indicators of productivity in recycling technologies respond to the needs of a linear economy. In this work, a parameter called "exentropy" is proposed, offering the possibility to simultaneously account for mass preservation and the energy efficiency of transformative stages. As a proof-of-concept of this indicator, the analysis of a lithium-ion battery recycling process under various concentrations of a leaching reagent (i.e., 0.1M, 1M, and 2M) is presented. It is shown that, when the energy or mass dimensions are considered independently, the processes considered optimal may have conflicting characteristics. In contrast, the multi-dimensional analysis identified the process option offering the best compromise for both material and energy preservation, an aspect closer to the goals of the circular economy.
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