Developing a life cycle assessment model for sodium-ion batteries

A life cycle assessment (LCA) is a systematic method for evaluating the environmental impacts of a product, process, or service across its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction and manufacturing to usage, and finally, disposal or recycling. When applied to batteries, LCA is particularly important as it reveals the hidden environmental costs associated with material sourcing, energy-intensive production processes, and end-of-life handling. Batteries are central to the transition to low-carbon technologies like electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, but their sustainability must be critically assessed to avoid shifting environmental burdens elsewhere in the supply chain. This perspective aligns with the broader focus of the PhD research, which combines experimental work on the state of health of LFP and sodium-ion batteries, using a modified worldwide harmonised light vehicles test cycles under varied temperatures to simulate different geographic regions, with a cradle-to-grave LCA to evaluate their overall environmental impact.
The primary aim of the secondment undertaken at CEA Grenoble, focused on supporting the development of an LCA model for sodium-ion batteries, was to support the development of an LCA model for sodium-ion batteries by establishing a robust cradle-to-gate life cycle inventory. This involved identifying and collecting data on the materials, processes, and energy inputs required for sodium-ion battery production, with a particular focus on cathode and anode active material manufacturing. By laying this foundation, the secondment aimed to enable the creation of an initial LCA model that could be expanded and refined in future work to assess the environmental impacts of sodium-ion battery technologies more comprehensively.
During the secondment, work was carried out to develop the LCA model for sodium-ion batteries, with a particular focus on cathode active material production. A detailed bill of materials was compiled from various sources, and the material requirements for sodium-ion batteries were calculated. Precursor chemicals used in cathode manufacturing were identified, and life cycle inventory data were gathered from academic literature and established databases. Based on this information, an initial LCA model for cathode active material production was constructed. The manufacturing process for the anode active material was also explored, and preliminary energy consumption estimates were initiated following a review of available energy data. As part of the secondment outputs, a cradle-to-gate process flow diagram for sodium-ion battery production was produced, and a poster was prepared and presented at the Oxford Battery Modelling Symposium, demonstrating a sensitivity analysis on electricity mix scenarios and their influence on environmental impact for sodium-ion battery cathode production.
In future work, the remaining components of the sodium-ion battery, such as the anode, electrolyte, separator, and cell assembly processes, will be examined in greater detail. This will involve researching each component and compiling the corresponding life cycle inventory data. Once the full inventory has been established, the LCA model will be completed to provide a comprehensive cradle-to-gate assessment of sodium-ion battery production. This will enable meaningful comparisons with existing lithium-based systems and allow for further sensitivity analyses on variables such as electricity sources, material choices, and manufacturing pathways, with the goal of identifying opportunities to reduce environmental impact.
The secondment has been an enriching experience that fostered collaboration between institutions. Insights were shared on life cycle modelling, material data, and methodological approaches, paving the way for ongoing dialogue and future joint work as the research continues to develop. Grateful acknowledgment is given to Marie Pinochet and Loic Simonin for their expert advice.

Aya Ahmed Aly Rageh – University of Bristol