In the quest for sustainable industrial practices, a groundbreaking study has emerged from the Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science, led by Miguel Ángel López Zavala. Published in the journal *Water Resources and Industry* (translated from Spanish), the research presents a compelling case for implementing the circular economy of water in the automobile batteries recycling industry. This innovative approach not only promises significant environmental benefits but also substantial commercial impacts for the energy sector.
The study focuses on the key principles of the circular economy: reduce, reclaim, reuse, recycle, recover, and rethink. By applying these principles, López Zavala and his team have developed two approaches to enhance water resource efficiency and reduce wastewater generation in the automobile batteries recycling industry. “The circular economy model is not just about reducing waste; it’s about rethinking the entire industrial process to create a closed-loop system that benefits both the environment and the economy,” López Zavala explains.
The research involved a comprehensive survey and measuring campaign to determine the flow rates and characteristics of freshwater, wastewater, and treated wastewater streams. Water and pollutants mass balances were conducted to identify areas for improvement. The findings are impressive: implementing direct wastewater reuse can reduce freshwater consumption by 69.5% and total water inputs by over 66.0%. Additionally, direct wastewater reuse and recycling can be increased by 12% and 18%, respectively, contributing to a 6.2% reduction in wastewater generation.
One of the most significant findings is the identification of the batteries’ electrolyte as the main source of wastewater pollutants. López Zavala recommends rethinking and redesigning the industrial process to extract the electrolyte before processing the batteries. This strategy could recover 0.31 cubic meters of concentrated sulfuric acid per 1,000 batteries per month, translating to 248 cubic meters per month. This approach would achieve zero disposal of wastewater, attenuate aquifer pollution by heavy metals and salts, and reduce wastewater treatment costs by 90%, resulting in savings of over $90,000 per month or $1.15 million per year.
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. By reducing freshwater consumption and wastewater generation, companies in the automobile batteries recycling industry can significantly cut operational costs. The recovery of sulfuric acid not only reduces environmental pollution but also creates a valuable byproduct that can be sold or reused, further enhancing the economic viability of the process.
This study is a beacon of hope for sustainable industrial practices. As López Zavala notes, “The circular economy is not just a theoretical concept; it’s a practical solution that can drive sustainable development in the industrial sector.” The research published in *Water Resources and Industry* sets a precedent for future developments in the field, encouraging other industries to adopt similar practices.
The findings of this study have the potential to shape future developments in the automobile batteries recycling industry and beyond. By embracing the principles of the circular economy, companies can achieve significant environmental and economic benefits. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, this research serves as a reminder that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.