This overarching module provides a theoretical overview of the economic and environmental aspects of lithium-ion battery cell production with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathodes. As a lecture-based session without a practical component, it complements the more detailed process modules by placing the individual manufacturing steps into a broader context of sustainability, cost, and energy efficiency. Understanding these factors is increasingly important, as battery cell production is highly energy-intensive and its environmental footprint plays a decisive role in the overall sustainability of electromobility and stationary storage.

The session combines a structured description of the manufacturing process chain with an analysis of its economic and environmental implications. Participants gain insight into where energy is consumed along the production line and how efficiency can be improved. Special attention is given to the following key aspects:

  • Process chain description – outlining the sequence of steps from electrode production to cell assembly and finishing
  • Energy profiles and efficiency in battery cell production and their impact on overall cost
  • Identification of energy hotspots – locating the most energy-intensive process steps
  • Dry vs. wet coating – comparing both approaches with regard to energy demand, cost, and environmental footprint

By examining these topics, participants develop an understanding of how process design decisions influence both the economic viability and the environmental sustainability of battery production.

Learning Objectives

  • Participants understand the complete battery cell production process chain and can assess how individual process steps contribute to overall energy demand, cost, and environmental footprint.
  • Participants can identify energy hotspots within the manufacturing line and evaluate measures for improving energy efficiency.
  • Participants can assess the economic and environmental trade-offs between dry and wet coating processes and use this assessment as a basis for sustainable process design decisions.