| Abstract Scope |
This study proposes a Tai Chi Model for the sustainability of lithium-ion battery recycling, integrating engineering systems thinking with philosophy. The model consists of five hierarchical layers: one goal (sustainability), two technological pathways (direct regeneration and metallurgical recycling), four societal roles (government, enterprises, researchers, and consumers), eight influencing factors (resources, energy, environment, policy, application, technology, supply & demand, and economy), and all lifecycle participants. It emphasizes multi-pathway synergy, multi-role collaboration, and multi-factor coupling to enhance resource recovery and industrial sustainability. This framework systematically reveals the dynamic interrelationships and synergistic mechanisms shaping recycling systems. The model not only offers theoretical guidance for achieving closed-loop resource utilization and green industrial transformation but also provides a culturally informed systems approach that can be extended to the recycling of other strategic materials. Additionally, based on this model, the study examines current challenges, identifies key development opportunities, and outlines prospects for sustainable LIB recycling. |