Robotised disassembly of electric vehicle batteries: A systematic literature review

Abstract

This review examines the robotic disassembly of electric vehicle batteries, a critical concern as the adoption of electric vehicles increases worldwide. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in robotic disassembly and outlines future directions for research and policy in this essential area. The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable management practices to mitigate the environmental impact of end-of-life batteries. It evaluates current robotic technologies, strategies for human–robot collaboration, and the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing the efficiency and safety of these processes. The investigation identifies significant challenges, including the absence of standardised designs and the inherent risks of handling batteries. The feasibility of adopting design-for-disassembly principles is explored as a way to improve recycling and repurposing efforts. The review suggests avenues for future research, focusing on developing advanced robotics solutions and establishing supportive regulatory frameworks. These efforts aim to foster sustainable practices in the lifecycle management of electric vehicle batteries, contributing to the broader goal of environmental sustainability in the electric vehicle and battery industries. Previous reviews generally focus on recycling electric vehicle battery chemistry and materials; this review complements previous research by focusing on robotised disassembly.