PFAS in Batteries: A Rising Environmental and Health Threat

Toxic PFAS used in lithium-ion batteries, which power our clean energy technology, pose a significant pollution threat to the environment and human health, according to new research.

The peer-reviewed study focused on bis-FASI, an unregulated subclass of PFAS found in lithium-ion batteries. Researchers discovered high levels of these chemicals near clean energy manufacturing plants, with “concerning” levels found in the soil and water. These chemicals were also found in remote areas worldwide, including Chinese seawater, and their toxicity to living organisms is noted in the study.

The research identified battery waste in landfills as a major pollution source, as the majority of these batteries end up in dumps, which allows the chemicals to contaminate waterways and travel long distances. The study explained that bis-FASI can be reused, but only about 5% of lithium batteries end up being recycled. If that rate continues, 8 million tons of battery waste is predicted to accumulate by 2040.

Public health advocates are pushing to find alternatives to these toxic chemicals to power clean energy technology. Currently, as clean energy manufacturing increases, toxic pollution will continue to increase as well.

Jennifer Guelfo, a Texas Tech University researcher and study co-author, says there are “two critical challenges – to minimize aquatic pollution and increase our use of clean and sustainable energy, and both are worthy causes. But there’s a bit of tug-of-war between the two, and this study highlights that we have an opportunity now as we scale up this energy infrastructure to do a better job of incorporating environmental risk assessments.”

PFAS are man-made compounds used to make products that are water, stain, and heat-resistant. They are found in lithium-ion batteries to enhance their performance and increase their lifespan. PFAS are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not degrade and accumulate in the human body. PFAS are associated with cancer, birth defects, liver and thyroid diseases, declining sperm counts, and various other severe health issues.

“We must do everything possible to increase the recycling and reuse of lithium-ion batteries,” said Vineet Dubey of Custodio & Dubey. “Increasing the recycling rate would help keep toxic chemicals from our environment while ensuring we have enough of this important power source. Consumers must be educated and made aware of the need to recycle lithium-ion batteries in order to keep them out of landfills.”

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