Date of Award
2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering
Department
Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering
First Advisor
Manbir Sodhi
Abstract
In a world increasingly powered by portable electronics, the amount of battery waste produced and how to process the waste is paramount. An important component of these devices is the lithium-ion (Li-ion) cylindrical batteries, which store the power essential to their function. Cylindrical Li-ion cells - particularly the 18650, 21700, and 26650 formats - are among the most widely used battery types due to their standardized design, durability, and high energy density. Their cylindrical shape provides structural integrity, making them resistant to mechanical stress and thermal fluctuations. Additionally, their widespread adoption in industries like consumer electronics (CEs), electric vehicles (EVs), and power tools has ensured consistent manufacturing and availability, reinforcing their position as a reliable and versatile energy solution. These characteristics not only make cylindrical Li-ion cells dominant in portable electronics but also optimal for research on disassembly and material recovery. Compared to pouch or prismatic cells, their accessible design geometry facilitates the study of manual disassembly techniques, a key focus of this thesis. However, dismantling end-of-life (EOL) cylindrical cells presents significant challenges due to the complexities of the process, including safety hazards and economic inefficiencies. This research examines these difficulties using a product disassembly tree (PDT) framework to enhance efficiency and mitigate risks.
The proposed analysis evaluates two distinct disassembly pathways: careful disassembly and destructive disassembly, focused on maximizing material recovery with minimal risk. Each pathway is assessed for revenue, risk, and efficiency, considering environmental impacts and life cycle analysis (LCA), including resource use, pollution, and disposal challenges. Additionally, safety measures and operational feasibility are examined to support sustainable and cost-effective battery recycling.
Through this systematic approach, the study highlights the optimal routes to recover resources while safeguarding people. By simplifying a complex process into a structured and practical approach, this work advances a future where battery recycling is essential, combining efficiency, safety, and economic viability. Through the integration of these elements alongside sustainability, it establishes a blueprint for recovering valuable resources from electronic waste, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to a zero-waste society.
Recommended Citation
Ozuna, Ivy, "ANALYZING MANUAL CAREFUL AND DESTRUCTIVE DISASSEMBLY USING DECISION TREES FOR CONSUMER ELECTRONICS BATTERY CELLS" (2025). Open Access Master's Theses. Paper 2630.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/theses/2630