Can you get money from an old battery?
Yes, you can obtain monetary value from old batteries through recycling programs or resale. The exact amount depends on battery chemistry, capacity, and market conditions. Lead-acid batteries typically yield $1.50-$4.00 (¥10-30) per kilogram, while lithium-ion batteries range from $0.70-$1.40 (¥5-10) per kilogram. Larger EV batteries often command higher prices due to recoverable metals like cobalt and nickel.
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What determines old battery value?
Battery chemistry and capacity primarily dictate recycling value. Lead-acid types (common in cars) contain 60-80% reusable lead, while lithium batteries’ worth hinges on cathode materials like NMC or LFP. A standard 60V20Ah lithium pack contains ~3kg of recoverable metals worth ¥260-310.
Market dynamics significantly influence payouts. When lead prices hit ¥16,500/ton in 2023, lead-acid battery recycling values spiked 18%. Lithium cobalt oxide batteries command premium pricing due to cobalt’s volatility – prices swung between ¥330,000-410,000/ton last year. Pro Tip: Always check real-time metal commodity prices before selling bulk battery inventories.
| Battery Type | Price/KG (¥) | Key Valuables |
|---|---|---|
| Lead-Acid | 8-15 | Lead, Plastic |
| LiFePO4 | 5-8 | Aluminum, Copper |
| NMC | 12-18 | Nickel, Cobalt |
How do recyclers calculate payments?
Recyclers use weight-based formulas accounting for metal content. A 48V20Ah lead-acid battery weighing 17kg might return ¥140-170 (35-50% lead value). Lithium processors often apply complex algorithms – a 72V30Ah NMC pack could yield ¥450+ after extracting 1.2kg nickel and 0.4kg cobalt.
Regional policies create payment variations. China’s 2023 Battery Recycling Mandate requires licensed processors to pay minimum values: ¥120/kWh for retired EV batteries. However, actual offers depend on remaining capacity – a 70kWh pack with 80% health might fetch ¥6,720 before processing fees. Warning: Never sell damaged/swollen batteries without professional assessment – thermal risks can void payments.
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FAQs
Yes – a standard 12V60Ah lead-acid car battery contains 9kg lead worth ¥100-135, outperforming smaller SLI batteries by 40-60%.
Can I recycle household AA batteries?
Alkaline cells yield minimal returns (¥0.10-0.30/kg), but lithium coin cells contain valuable titanium worth ¥25-35/kg through specialized processors.