Dynamic Material Flow Analysis for Battery Cell Circularity in Mining Equipment
Ladda ner
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Program
Management and economics of innovation (MPMEI), MSc
Publicerad
2023
Författare
Ekblad, Johanna
Viberud, Lydia
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
Over the last decade, electric vehicles (EVs) have advanced considerably, with predictions of continued
rapid growth. However, the batteries driving this electrification contain rare materials like lithium, nickel,
and graphite, which are expected to face increased demand. This surge in demand poses challenges
related to material supply and resource constraints. Circular economy principles can reduce the
constraints and extending battery life through reuse and recycling loops. The mining industry
exemplifies this transition, substituting diesel-powered equipment with electric alternatives in mines.
This study therefore aims to investigate the resource implications of increased circularity for battery
cells in mining equipment until 2050. Specific objectives include developing a dynamic material flow
analysis (dMFA) model, examining effects under different reuse scenarios, and analyzing recycling rate
implications.
Results from the dMFA model show that life extension practices, such as reuse in other machines and
battery energy storage solutions (BESS), can considerably reduce the demand for primary materials
when electrifying the mining sector. For example, life extension possibilities in other mining equipment
could in 2050 result in a lower demand for primary material, corresponding to a reduction of 17%. In the
other scenarios, this level of reduction is affected by collection rate, recycling rate and the possibility of
reusing batteries in BESS. However, practical challenges in infrastructure and compatibility arise with
increased battery cell flows.
The results further underscore the challenges arising from mining electrification, including infrastructure
overhaul, longevity of operational mines, and practical issues in battery reuse. The thesis highlights the
role of legislation in advancing recycling and technological adoption, emphasizing the need for clear
legal frameworks. Collection rate mandates and product-service systems can incentivize businesses to
enhance recycling efforts. Despite uncertainties in the dMFA model, the findings offer guidance for
stakeholders and policymakers in enhancing sustainability within the mining sector. Future research is
suggested to delve into the feasibility of life extension strategies and conduct life cycle assessments to
investigate environmental impacts of electrifying mining equipment.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
mining electrification , battery electric vehicles , LFP batteries , circular economy , battery reuse , battery recycling , battery life extension , material flow analysis