Publication date:
July 8, 2024
EV Battery Production Linked to PFAS Pollution
Scientists have discovered that lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in electric vehicles, are contributing to 'forever chemical' pollution in multiple countries.
Energy Environment
A recent study has uncovered a concerning link between the production of lithium-ion batteries, widely used in electric vehicles (EVs), and the spread of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals'. The research, conducted across multiple countries, has identified a specific class of PFAS called bisperfluoroalkyl sulfonimides (bis-FASIs) in air, water, snow, and soil near chemical manufacturing plants in the United States, Belgium, and France.
The study's findings highlight a potential environmental trade-off in the transition to cleaner transportation. While EVs are crucial for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change, the production of their batteries may be introducing new environmental challenges. Jennifer Guelfo, an associate professor of environmental engineering at Texas Tech University and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue, stating, "Slashing carbon dioxide emissions with innovations like electric cars is critical, but it shouldn't come with the side effect of increasing PFAS pollution."
The research team tested over a dozen lithium-ion batteries used in EVs and consumer electronics, finding bis-FASIs at various concentrations. These chemicals are particularly concerning due to their persistence in the environment and potential health impacts. While the effects of bis-FASIs on human health have not yet been thoroughly studied, other PFAS have been linked to liver damage, high cholesterol, low birth weights, and chronic kidney disease.
The study also highlighted the global nature of this issue, as lithium-ion batteries are used worldwide. Low levels of the same class of PFAS have been detected in European and Chinese water sources, though the origin of this pollution was previously unclear. The researchers detected bis-FASIs at parts per billion levels, which is significantly higher than the limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency for PFAS in drinking water.
The environmental impact of these chemicals extends beyond their initial production. With only about 5% of lithium-ion batteries currently being recycled, there are concerns about future contamination from improperly disposed batteries. By 2040, it is estimated that there could be approximately 8 million tons of lithium-ion battery waste.
Experts are calling for a multifaceted approach to address this emerging problem. This includes developing new battery technologies that don't rely on PFAS, improving battery recycling processes, and implementing stricter regulations on chemical production and disposal. The study serves as a crucial reminder that as we pursue solutions to one environmental crisis, we must be vigilant about potential unintended consequences and work to create truly sustainable technologies.
The study's findings highlight a potential environmental trade-off in the transition to cleaner transportation. While EVs are crucial for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change, the production of their batteries may be introducing new environmental challenges. Jennifer Guelfo, an associate professor of environmental engineering at Texas Tech University and co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing this issue, stating, "Slashing carbon dioxide emissions with innovations like electric cars is critical, but it shouldn't come with the side effect of increasing PFAS pollution."
The research team tested over a dozen lithium-ion batteries used in EVs and consumer electronics, finding bis-FASIs at various concentrations. These chemicals are particularly concerning due to their persistence in the environment and potential health impacts. While the effects of bis-FASIs on human health have not yet been thoroughly studied, other PFAS have been linked to liver damage, high cholesterol, low birth weights, and chronic kidney disease.
The study also highlighted the global nature of this issue, as lithium-ion batteries are used worldwide. Low levels of the same class of PFAS have been detected in European and Chinese water sources, though the origin of this pollution was previously unclear. The researchers detected bis-FASIs at parts per billion levels, which is significantly higher than the limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency for PFAS in drinking water.
The environmental impact of these chemicals extends beyond their initial production. With only about 5% of lithium-ion batteries currently being recycled, there are concerns about future contamination from improperly disposed batteries. By 2040, it is estimated that there could be approximately 8 million tons of lithium-ion battery waste.
Experts are calling for a multifaceted approach to address this emerging problem. This includes developing new battery technologies that don't rely on PFAS, improving battery recycling processes, and implementing stricter regulations on chemical production and disposal. The study serves as a crucial reminder that as we pursue solutions to one environmental crisis, we must be vigilant about potential unintended consequences and work to create truly sustainable technologies.
