Scientists have uncovered a new source of hazardous “forever chemical” pollution: the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries found in most electric vehicles (EVs). This discovery highlights a significant trade-off in the transition to cleaner energy solutions, as the drive to reduce carbon emissions inadvertently introduces other environmental and health risks.
Role of PFAS in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Certain lithium-ion battery technologies use a class of PFAS chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which help make batteries less flammable and more efficient at conducting electricity. These PFAS chemicals, specifically bis-perfluoroalkyl sulfonimides (bis-FASIs), have been found in various environmental samples near plants manufacturing these chemicals in the US, Belgium, and France. The findings were published in a peer-reviewed study in the journal Nature Communications.
PFAS are dubbed “forever chemicals” because they accumulate rapidly in the environment, people, and animals and can persist for thousands of years. They are associated with numerous health issues, including liver damage, high cholesterol, low birth weight, and chronic kidney disease.
The study underscores the complexities of adopting green technologies. While EVs are pivotal in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and combating climate change, they also contribute to PFAS pollution. This revelation calls for a balanced approach to sustainability that mitigates unintended consequences.
Jennifer Guelfo, an associate professor of environmental engineering at Texas Tech University and coauthor of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing PFAS pollution alongside efforts to reduce carbon emissions. “Slashing [carbon dioxide] emissions with innovations like electric cars is critical, but it shouldn’t come with the side effect of increasing PFAS pollution,” she said.
Global Impact and Need for Further Research
The study highlights a global concern since lithium-ion batteries are used worldwide. The same class of PFAS has been detected at low levels in water sources in Europe and China, but the sources of the pollution were unclear until now. Scientists tested more than a dozen lithium-ion batteries from EVs and consumer electronics like laptops and found bis-FASIs at various concentrations.
Lee Ferguson, an associate professor of environmental engineering at Duke University and coauthor of the study, pointed out the need for more research to understand the prevalence of these chemicals in specific lithium-ion batteries.
Regulatory and Mitigation Efforts
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set stringent limits for PFAS in drinking water, and strategies to remove PFAS from water can also address bis-FASIs. However, these efforts face challenges as some chemical manufacturers and water utilities contest the regulations in court.
Beyond water contamination, bis-FASIs can also disperse through air emissions and leach from landfills where most lithium-ion batteries end up. Currently, only about 5 percent of these batteries are recycled, and by 2040, the world could face up to 8 million tons of lithium-ion battery waste.
The study advocates for a comprehensive approach involving scientists, engineers, manufacturers, and policymakers to develop battery technologies and recycling solutions that minimize PFAS pollution. “We need to be carefully evaluating these chemicals that are being used in sustainable energy infrastructure,” Guelfo said. “We should be evaluating them now before it becomes a more widespread problem. We have an opportunity to really maximize the idea of sustainability.”
Several companies, including 3M, Solvay, and Arkema, hold patents for or produce bis-FASIs. Research focused on areas near these companies’ manufacturing plants revealed significant pollution. 3M, a major PFAS manufacturer, recently agreed to a $10 billion settlement with US cities and towns over claims of drinking water contamination and plans to cease PFAS production by the end of 2025.
This discovery serves as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilant environmental oversight as society transitions to sustainable technologies. Addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change and pollution will require innovative and holistic solutions to ensure a truly sustainable future.