Paths to improving the environmental performance of lithium-ion batteries: From eco-design to eco-innovation

The purpose of this study is to lay out a systematic eco-design approach for Lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, a discussion of recent Lifecycle Assessment reports shows which lifecycle phases or sub-components dominate the environmental effects of Li-batteries. Current eco-design strategies, primarily in terms of material and energy optimization are reviewed, before exploring a functional approach, for a given application. Functional and environmental requirements are prioritized, with respect to their influence (direct and indirect) on the environmental performance. The emergence of conflicting requirements is inevitable. TRIZ-tools along with analogies inspired by nature have been employed to search for solutions at all three levels of scale (material, component, system). It is meant as a methodological demonstration of eco-innovation tools, in order to inspire scientists, engineers and managers already active in the field of Lithium-ion batteries to apply them and possibly engage in open-innovation.