The presence of PFAS in lithium batteries poses questions about electric mobility
The use of a new subclass of PFAS in lithium batteries is a growing source of air and water pollution. This is what emerges from a study published in Nature. Tests conducted by the Texas University team that carried out the work also found that these PFAS, called bis perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides (bisFASIs), have an environmental persistence and eco-toxicity comparable to more well-known compounds, such as perfluorooctanoic acid. (PFOA).
Lithium-ion batteries are a key component of the growing clean energy infrastructure, with applications in electric cars and electronics. Demand is expected to grow exponentially over the next decade. However, this innovation presents a new dilemma. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions remains crucial, but should not have the side effect of increasing PFAS pollution. Researchers, therefore, recommend developing technologies, controls and recycling solutions that counter the climate crisis without releasing highly recalcitrant pollutants.
“Studies estimate that only 5% of lithium batteries are recycled,” the researchers write. The industry could produce about 8 million tons of waste by 2040. “In addition, the recycling of lithium batteries could result in the release of bis-FASI into the environment.” In summary, “there is potential for widespread environmental releases of PFAS during the production of electrolytes, fluoropolymer and lithium batteries, including during the product’s use, recycling and disposal”.
A problem discovered with environmental sampling
To determine the problem of bis-FASI, researchers sampled air, water, snow, soil, and sediment near plants in Minnesota, Kentucky, Belgium, and France. The concentrations found were high. The data suggests that atmospheric emissions of bis-FASI may also have a long-range impact, affecting areas far from production sites. Furthermore, an analysis of several municipal landfills in the southeast United States indicated that these compounds can enter the environment by disposing of products, including lithium batteries.
Concentrations of bis-FASI similar to those found in sampling sites may modify the energy metabolic processes of aquatic organisms. Although the toxicity of bis-FASIs in humans has not yet been studied, other PFAS are linked to cancer, infertility and severe health damage.
Like other PFAS, bis-FASIs do not break down during oxidation. However, the concentrations of bis-FASI in water can be reduced by using granular activated charcoal and ionic exchange. The same methods are already used to remove PFAS from drinking water.