NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology

07/27/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/28/2026 03:08

Reference model for lithium-based traction battery recovery: NIST TLB-R Model

Published
July 27, 2026

Author(s)

Matthew Triebe, Katherine Morris, Jamie Weaver

Abstract

Traction batteries, or electric-drive battery pack systems, rely on critical materials and minerals that are vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, making recovery and recycling crucial to reducing reliance on raw, mined resources and bolstering domestic inventories of critical minerals. In response, stakeholders from across the EVB supply chain are collaborating to drive changes to existing material flow systems. The Engineering Laboratory (EL) and Material Measurement Laboratory (MML) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed a baseline, open-source EVB recovery material flow reference model to facilitate communication and clarity around the technical processes and information needs for battery recovery. This model has the potential to support the development of a nascent and emerging industry, enabling more efficient and sustainable EVB recovery and material recovery practices. By providing a common reference point, the model can help stakeholders to identify new opportunities, inform decision-making, and drive innovation in the field.
Citation
Advanced Manufacturing Series (NIST AMS) - 100-82
Report Number
100-82
Pub Type
NIST Pubs

Keywords

Critical minerals and materials, Traction lithium batteries, IDEF0, Recovery, Reference model

Citation

Triebe, M. , Morris, K. and Weaver, J. (2026), Reference model for lithium-based traction battery recovery: NIST TLB-R Model, Advanced Manufacturing Series (NIST AMS), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.AMS.100-82 , https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=961044 (Accessed July 28, 2026)
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NIST - National Institute of Standards and Technology published this content on July 27, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on July 28, 2026 at 09:08 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]