Current Status of Processes and Hazardous Chemicals of Lithium-ion Battery Industries in the Republic of Korea

IF 3.5 3区医学 Q1 PUBLIC, ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

Safety and Health at Work Pub Date : 2025-03-01 DOI:10.1016/j.shaw.2024.10.005

Miyeon Jang , Gwangyong Yi , Hyeonjin Jeon , Chungsik Yoon

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background

With global trends of carbon neutrality and ecofriendliness, the demand for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has been rapidly increasing. However, occupational health research within this sector is significantly lacking. Thus, this study aimed to understand the industrial value chain, processes, and current status of hazardous chemicals associated with LIBs.

Methods

Through a literature review and a survey of business sites, the LIB industry was categorized into 10 industrial groups. We visited 32 workplaces in the Republic of Korea, and conducted on-site surveys.

Results

Primary mineral raw materials used in LIBs include lithium (Li), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn), and aluminum (Al) often in compound forms, alongside graphite, posing significant challenges in management due to their micrometer-sized particles. Furthermore, metals used in a salt form (such as LiOH or sulfate salts) can irritate the skin or respiratory system, particularly Ni and Co known to be toxic substances designated as human carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Acids, bases, and various solvents are also used to improve batteries' electrical properties. Dichloromethane classified as carcinogenic 2A by the International Agency for Research on Cancer is widely used in the separator industry. Carbonate-based solvents are widely used in electrolytes with potential for exposure in battery cell manufacturers and recycling industries. However, they are not classified as regulated substances, leading to inadequate management practices.

Conclusion

This study identified processes of each industry and chemical substances utilized in the LIB industry in the Republic of Korea. Based on this study, it is necessary to implement appropriate management measures tailored to industrial processes and types of harmful factors.

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来源期刊

Safety and Health at Work Social Sciences-Safety Research

CiteScore

6.40

自引率

5.70%

发文量

1080

审稿时长

38 days

期刊介绍： Safety and Health at Work (SH@W) is an international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal published quarterly in English beginning in 2010. The journal is aimed at providing grounds for the exchange of ideas and data developed through research experience in the broad field of occupational health and safety. Articles may deal with scientific research to improve workers'' health and safety by eliminating occupational accidents and diseases, pursuing a better working life, and creating a safe and comfortable working environment. The journal focuses primarily on original articles across the whole scope of occupational health and safety, but also welcomes up-to-date review papers and short communications and commentaries on urgent issues and case studies on unique epidemiological survey, methods of accident investigation, and analysis. High priority will be given to articles on occupational epidemiology, medicine, hygiene, toxicology, nursing and health services, work safety, ergonomics, work organization, engineering of safety (mechanical, electrical, chemical, and construction), safety management and policy, and studies related to economic evaluation and its social policy and organizational aspects. Its abbreviated title is Saf Health Work.