Assessment of sustainability issues for the selection of materials and technologies during product design: a case study of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles

A methodology is developed for assessing relevant issues of the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of the modern sustainability concept. It is designed for evaluating and selecting materials and technologies during product development. Established approaches, i.e. environmental life cycle assessment, life cycle costing, social life cycle assessment, material flow analysis, and the criticality analysis of resources are used and adjusted according to the circumstances and limitations of the particular application. The assessment is applied to the use of lithium-ion batteries with nickel-manganese-cobalt cathode (Li-NMC) and with iron-phosphate cathode (LiFeP) in an electric vehicle, and compares the two options with each other. The results show an advantage for the Li-NMC battery regarding the global warming potential and life cycle costs. The LiFeP battery, however, turns out to be more beneficial with respect to the other emission-related impact categories. Further, the use of cobalt in Li-NMC vehicle batteries involves several disadvantages, such as a significant contribution towards the depletion of cobalt, the considerable risk of a supply shortage, and the risk of negative social aspects along its supply chain.