Assessing Lithium-ion Battery Discharge and Measuring Emissions

About the Webinar

Originally presented on June 11, 2025

This recording is not available.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are used in nearly every electronic device produced over the last decade, including the rise of electric vehicles. Their widespread use increases the need to better understand how to properly dispose of LIBs.

Damaged LIBs, whether from car accidents, floods, fires, or other traumatic event, pose a heightened risk of ignition. Additionally, improper handling of damaged LIBs can lead to fires that are notoriously difficult to extinguish and release toxic gases. Discharging residual energy from LIBs is crucial for safe transport and disposal of these batteries. Traditionally, this is achieved with saltwater brines, but this method results in severe corrosion and complicates recycling efforts.

This webinar will present an evaluation of alternative discharge solutions for improved recycling of LIBs and the characterization of LIB fire emissions. 

About the Presenter

Dr. Souhail Al-Abed is a research chemist at EPA Office of Research and Development's Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response in Cincinnati, OH. He leads research in the areas of management and beneficial use of materials including plastics, environmental disastrous debris, and lithium-ion batteries prior to recycling to thermal runaway control. His research extends to emission measurements and identification of chemicals from lithium-ion batteries related to fires. He authored and co-authored more than 120 peer-review journal articles and six book chapters and received more than 1,800 citations.