Major manufacturing industries rely on lead-based batteries and lithium-iron phosphate batteries for critical energy storage. Each has advantages. Yet, comparing the two technologies shows quite different sustainability profiles, particularly during their manufacturing phase.
Comparative lifecycle assessments between certain lead-based (Pb) batteries and lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries have made an important conclusion: Lead battery sustainability substantially surpasses lithium-iron phosphate in manufacturing.
The need to reduce global warming has made sustainability a key criterion in selecting energy storage technologies. Increasingly, the automotive, material handling and industrial sectors are factoring in a battery chemistry’s green profile during manufacturing – not just end-of-life recycling – in addition to safety, reliability and cost-efficiency. Lead batteries especially excel in modeling a successful circular economy.
Auto manufacturers of ICE, start-stop and micro-hybrids face new and emerging battery options. Many have an unknown impact on global warming. A comparative lifecycle assessment evaluated a 12V lead-based battery (Pb or PbB) and a 12V lithium-iron phosphate battery (LFP, also known as LiB-LFP).
Experts predict that global demand for motive batteries will increase by over 63%, from 41 GWh in 2022 to 67 GWh in 2030. The material handling sector is rapidly replacing gas-powered internal combustion for forklifts to electric models with on-board power supply. This is driving demand for both Pb batteries and LFP batteries. A comparative lifecycle assessment evaluated the batteries, each were 48V, 500 Ah (24kWh).
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Article
September 20, 2023
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