“Not quite simple”: Batteries are tested for dangerous ingredients

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Despite strict limit values, according to Empa, batteries still contain too many ingredients that are harmful to the environment or health, such as mercury, cadmium and lead.

According to the materials testing institute, it was previously not possible to check compliance with the limit values ​​in Switzerland. “There was simply no reliable and recognized method to accurately determine the elements mentioned in batteries,” Empa wrote.

A research team therefore set out to develop such an analysis method. According to Empa, this turned out to be “not entirely easy”. Normally, items are shredded for such analysis. However, batteries could not be opened without a risk of explosion.

To avoid this danger, according to Empa, the batteries must first be discharged and then carefully dismantled and shredded. The different components of the different battery types are then sorted and dissolved in an acid mixture. The heavy metals are then dissolved and can be determined spectroscopically.

According to Empa, the method now makes it possible to monitor compliance with existing regulations. About 80 battery types will be examined next year. The results are expected in 2024. The campaign is led by the Zurich Cantonal Laboratory.

However, when developing the analysis method, the researchers discovered that the potentially dangerous substances are not always present where you would expect them. In some cases they found hazardous substances not only in the interior, but also in the housing of the batteries. (SDA)

Source:Blick