4 May 2026

Characterizing Lithium-Ion Battery Health and Mitigating Transportation and Recycling Hazards

Abstract: With the growing trend toward electric vehicle (EV) use, the demand for safe, efficient, and cost-effective energy storage grows increasingly crucial. The ability to effectively characterize battery health, transport and dispose of batteries safely, and mitigate the by-products of battery recycling are all important to reduce the risks of lithium-ion battery (LIB) usage throughout the battery’s life cycle. The transportation and disposal of LIBs present critical challenges and require stringent safety measures to mitigate risks effectively. Additionally, many recycling methods are less cost-effective or more environmentally harmful than mining new materials. This report describes the findings of a collaborative project between the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Construction Engineering Research Laboratory, to address these concerns and contribute to safer and more environmentally friendly transportation, recycling, and disposal of LIBs. The most common battery recycling techniques are investigated—pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, and direct recycling—along with the environmental impact of these methods. The overall potential environmental impacts of LIB usage can be greatly improved through proper battery disposal. Addressing hazards at the battery level by enhancing the stability and cooling of batteries can simplify battery transportation and improve safety.

20 Mar 2024

Hazardous and Solid Waste Management Planning in Select African Countries

Abstract: Managing wastes produced during contingency operations in United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) locations has historically relied on local contract disposal or open-air burn pits, which have been shown to be harmful to the health of service members. Posture locations that can find alternative ways to manage waste, specifically through contracts with the host country’s waste services, can better protect the health and safety of the warfighter and the native landscapes. African waste systems are complex, decentralized systems with considerable regional variation. The lack of government-funded waste management services leaves many residents with few options for safe disposal. The differing waste disposal strategies are described to offer guidance for military operations in the focus countries of Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Niger, Senegal, and Uganda. Relevant international agreements regulating the flow of hazardous waste across borders that can impact disposal plans are also noted. This report serves as a reference to develop waste management alternatives in the USAFRICOM area of responsibility (AOR). Official Department of Defense and Army regulations should be consulted when devising an integrated waste management plan.