The recycling efficiency of Li-ion EV batteries according to the European Commission regulation, and the relation with the end-of-life vehicles directive recycling rate

In Europe, batteries from electric vehicles are subject to the EC Directive 2006/66/EC (Batteries Directive). This Directive regulates the end-of-life management and sets targets on the recycling efficiency. The concept of battery recycling efficiency goes beyond the recycling target of the End-of-Life Vehicles directive. The paper describes the meaning of the recycling efficiency and illustrates how it is calculated in the case of Li-ion battery recycling according to the Umicore battery recycling process.