Lithium-ion batteries, which are being used in an increasing number of consumer products, can cause fires and explosions at recycling facilities if they are punctured during processing.
RRS conducted a survey that asked 31 materials recovery facility operators, representing 119 MRFs nationwide, about their perceived risk and potential hazards of batteries in the MRF environment.
The responses indicate that over three-quarters of MRF operators are increasingly aware and concerned about the issues facing them from lithium-based batteries entering the MRF.
Data Corner is compiled monthly by recycling consultancy RRS.
This article originally appeared in the May 2018 issue of Resource Recycling. Subscribe today for access to all print content.