This article presents a non-electrochemical discharge method for safely recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by completely draining their energy before recycling. The study investigates the effectiveness of discharging LIBs at different temperatures to minimize residual energy, which is crucial for safe and environmentally friendly recycling. The research focuses on 18,650 cylindrical LIB cells, but the findings can be extrapolated to other cell types. Experiments were conducted at three temperatures (25°C, 35°C, and 45°C) to determine the optimal temperature for discharging. Results showed that discharging at 35°C significantly reduced residual energy compared to lower temperatures, making it the optimal temperature for safe recycling. The study also proposes a self-heating method using the battery's internal resistance to preheat the battery before discharging, which enhances electrochemical reaction rates and improves energy extraction. This method eliminates the need for external heating equipment, reducing costs and environmental impact. The research highlights the importance of pre-discharging LIBs to prevent safety hazards during recycling, emphasizing the need for a cost-effective and sustainable approach to LIB recycling. The findings suggest that discharging at 35°C is the most effective method for ensuring safe and efficient recycling of LIBs.This article presents a non-electrochemical discharge method for safely recycling lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by completely draining their energy before recycling. The study investigates the effectiveness of discharging LIBs at different temperatures to minimize residual energy, which is crucial for safe and environmentally friendly recycling. The research focuses on 18,650 cylindrical LIB cells, but the findings can be extrapolated to other cell types. Experiments were conducted at three temperatures (25°C, 35°C, and 45°C) to determine the optimal temperature for discharging. Results showed that discharging at 35°C significantly reduced residual energy compared to lower temperatures, making it the optimal temperature for safe recycling. The study also proposes a self-heating method using the battery's internal resistance to preheat the battery before discharging, which enhances electrochemical reaction rates and improves energy extraction. This method eliminates the need for external heating equipment, reducing costs and environmental impact. The research highlights the importance of pre-discharging LIBs to prevent safety hazards during recycling, emphasizing the need for a cost-effective and sustainable approach to LIB recycling. The findings suggest that discharging at 35°C is the most effective method for ensuring safe and efficient recycling of LIBs.