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

NIST Pub Series

Advanced Manufacturing Series (NIST AMS)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.AMS.100-82

Local Download

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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