When recycling used batteries, identifying their types first is the key. Lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries differ greatly in appearance and characteristics. Master these points to distinguish them easily.
In terms of appearance and weight, lead-acid batteries are mostly "bulky". Their casings are usually made of hard plastic or metal, with a heavy and solid build that feels quite weighty in hand. Commonly used in electric vehicles and automotive starter power supplies, they are generally block-shaped with multiple cells connected in series. Lithium batteries, by contrast, are much lighter, with diverse casing materials including soft packs, cylindrical and square cells. They look like the thin batteries in mobile phones and laptops, or modular battery packs on electric vehicles, and are far lighter than lead-acid batteries of the same capacity.
Judge from labels and applications. Regular battery casings are marked with their types. Lead-acid batteries are usually labeled with "Lead-Acid" or "Pb". Designed for high-current discharge, they are mainly used in scenarios requiring instant high power, such as car starting and electric tricycle power systems. Lithium batteries are marked with "Lithium", "Li-ion" or "Lithium". Boasting high energy density and strong endurance, they are widely applied in new energy vehicles, mobile phones, energy storage devices and light electric vehicles.
Auxiliary identification can be done through disassembly and characteristics. When disassembled, lead-acid batteries reveal black lead plates and transparent electrolyte (sulfuric acid solution, corrosive). They tend to heat up but rarely catch fire in case of short circuit. Lithium batteries consist of internal cells and protection boards, with organic solution as electrolyte. A short circuit can easily cause high temperature, fire and even explosion, so disassembly is highly risky. Never disassemble lithium batteries violently on your own.
Identifying battery types is the first step in used battery recycling. Only with the right equipment can you achieve efficient and eco-friendly disposal. Jiangxi Mingxin specializes in customized crushing and shredding solutions tailored to the characteristics of different batteries, facilitating the recycling and reuse of used batteries in a safe and efficient way.
