J. Yang, Benjamin Robinson, Hongqing Hao, Jiayi Zhu, Dong Tian, Zelin Ye, Bo Dong, Kai Yang, S. Ravi P. Silva, Y. Zhao, Xinhua Liu, Rui Tan, Chee Tong John Low
ABSTRACT Aluminium and copper foils constitute essential current collectors in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), critically influencing both battery performance and manufacturing costs. As LIB adoption grows exponentially, the sustainability and cost‐effectiveness of these current collectors have emerged as pivotal factors to establish circular economies in battery technologies. Although extensive research has prioritized recycling strategic cathode elements (e.g., Li, Co), spent LIBs also contain significant quantities of highly recyclable and valuable Al and Cu that can be directly reintroduced into existing supply chains to address resource scarcity, mitigate environmental impacts and enhance economic feasibility. This review first analyses the functional significance, criteria, historical evolution, and recycling imperatives of current collectors in LIBs, followed by a mechanistic discussion of fundamental recycling principles. A comprehensive evaluation of state‐of‐the‐art recycling technologies for Al and Cu current collectors is then presented, complemented by a critical assessment of conventional foil manufacturing processes to identify compatibility requirements for incorporating recycled materials. In summary, the discussion pinpoints persistent challenges and emerging opportunities in current collector recycling, offering strategic insights towards a fully circular future for LIB production systems. This work is expected to advance novel and sustainable technologies for recycling current collectors to promote sustainable development and circular economy.