Batteries are widely used in our daily lives. They live in our electronics, electrical appliances, or any other battery-operated device. They come in all shapes, sizes, and chemistries and should be handled with care when they are no longer in use.
If not recycled these batteries will end up in landfills contributing to the ever-growing waste problem while wasting potentially usable resources. These batteries also contain toxic materials that can leak into the environment. Through this post, we will talk about the significance of storing your end-of-life batteries safely before recycling, and how to properly dispose of these batteries.
Start collecting your old batteries to be recycled. When a battery is at its end of life it should be disposed of safely, while taking all the necessary precautions. If awaiting disposal, these batteries should be stored in an UN-approved battery recycling kit. For compliance, we recommend only storing your battery kit for 12 months before sending it for recycling.
Why is safe storage crucial?
With the continual innovation in the battery sectors the diversity in battery chemistries, sizes and configurations grow.
Store batteries according to their specific type according to the UN approved recycling containers:
- Make sure to tape the terminals (or ends) of lithium batteries with clear plastic tape to prevent short circuits.
- Store batteries in a cool dry place
- Depending on the size may choose to have battery collection tubes that are pretty compact and accessible. You can carry batteries in these tubes to the recycling center or later transfer them to the battery recycling container when shipping.
- When making these purchases, you can also buy a set of anti-static bags of appropriate size.
- Before placing a battery into the recycling kit check if the battery is cracked or swollen. You can easily identify this if you see some white powder on the battery surface if it appears a bit wet, or physically swollen in size. Such batteries, when used, may heat up very fast. Package these batteries carefully using gloves and put them in a clear plastic bag.
- After the taping and packaging, find out the nearest recycler and contact them. Confirm a pickup schedule with them and ask them for any help you need for packaging.
Damaged or Vehicle Batteries
- Damaged batteries: Use special recycling containers that include a drum made of steel and offer anti-static bags.
- Vehicle batteries: Call Battery Solutions in advance to get information and a quote before drop off.
If you are looking for a battery recycling services provider, ensure the recycling location complies with all the required safety compliance training and is R2 certified. Also, make sure to pack these batteries in a battery recycling container that is UN-approved when in transit.
Want to start recycling your batteries? Visit BatterySolutions.com to get a battery recycling today.