 Retired lithium-ion batteries contain valuable metals such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese. These metals are often bound together with a polymer called polyvinylidine fluoride, PVDF. Separating these metals from the polymer can be difficult due to its strong bonding properties. To make this process easier, researchers have developed several methods for separating the metals from the polymer. These include physical separation, chemical reactions, and thermal treatments. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, but all aim to reduce the amount of PVDF waste produced during the recycling process. This article was authored by Meng Meng Wang, Kong Lu, Jiao Dong Yu, and others.