How can cobalt-intensive batteries save a lot of cobalt?

On the demand side, public policies dedicated to sustainable mobility should be encouraged and priority should be given to less cobalt-intensive batteries. Promoting these types of battery technologies can save up to nearly 350 kt of cobalt. The role of mobility is also clearly emphasized, and these two public policies must be carried out jointly.

Can cobalt be removed from batteries?

But since cobalt is scarce and prices are notoriously volatile, scientists are searching for ways to remove it from batteries. COBRA was born from a need to create sustainable Co-free materials with improved cathode performance and an advanced battery management system for better battery safety and performance.

Why is cobalt used in lithium ion batteries?

The use of cobalt in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) traces back to the well-known LiCoO 2 (LCO) cathode, which offers high conductivity and stable structural stability throughout charge cycling.

Are cobalt-free batteries a good option?

We show that cobalt-free batteries and recycling progress can indeed significantly alleviate cobalt supply risks in the long run; however, a cobalt shortage between 2028 and 2033 appears inevitable, even under the most optimistic scenario, due to global automobile electrification ambitions.

Can battery technology reduce cobalt demand-supply imbalance?

While battery technology and recycling advancement are two widely acknowledged strategies for addressing such supply risks, the extent to which they will relieve global and regional cobalt demand–supply imbalance remains poorly understood.

Can recycled cobalt be used in rechargeable batteries?

However, the integration of recycled cobalt in rechargeable batteries brings new challenges and complexities. Cobalt plays a crucial role in various modern technologies, particularly in batteries, fuel cells, robotics, and digital devices.