CORE STAGE
2 Incoming Inspection & Storage
Updated 04/2025
Short Description
Upon arrival at recycling facilities, batteries undergo detailed inspection to identify damage, determine battery types, and sort them by chemistry or size. Additionally, the incoming material is being weighed and documented in an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) or MES (Manufacturing Execution System) system. This ensures suitability for further processing. They are then temporarily stored in secure, fire-preventive storage areas until ready for recycling.
Relevant Material Streams
Sub-Processes
2.1 Inspecting & Sorting
Incoming material is inspected to ensure that the battery is in a safe state. In addition, it is sorted, weighed, and documented according to chemistry, safety state and type of battery (consumer, manufacturing scrap, automotive battery).
2.2 Storing
After inspection, the batteries and materials are being stored in different places, each meeting the dedicated needs of safety surveillance until the material is being processed.
Relevant Product Groups
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Core Questions
The battery recycling is evolving rapidly—but when it comes to incoming inspection and storage, the rules, infrastructure, and best practices often lag behind. With growing safety concerns, inconsistent procedures, and limited guidance, operators are left navigating significant uncertainty.
In this section, we highlight key questions that need to be addressed to make the inspection and storage of batteries safer and more consistent. We don’t yet offer definitive answers—but by raising these issues, we aim to spark dialogue, encourage knowledge sharing, and move toward practical, real-world solutions.
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Guidelines & Regulations
The Governmental Regulations section outlines key policies and legal frameworks that govern battery production, usage, recycling, and disposal to ensure safety, sustainability, and compliance with environmental standards.
⚠️ Please note: This section does not represent a complete or exhaustive overview of all applicable regulations. It is intended for general orientation only and should not be considered legal advice or regulatory interpretation. For detailed compliance guidance, always consult the official legislation or a qualified regulatory expert.
Regulations
Sets requirements for storage, including:
- storage must take place at sites with impermeable surfaces and suitable weatherproof covering;
- batteries must not be mixed with waste containing conductive or combustible materials; and
- additional safety measures are required for handling and sorting, particularly related to heat, water, and crushing risks.
Batteries must be tested at end-of-life to determine their state of health. If a battery is destined for reuse or repurposing, proof of state-of-health testing, intended use, and safe transportation must be provided.
Innovation & Trends
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