context: Besides lithium, a modern LIB typically contains non-widespread transition metals, such as copper (anode current collector), nickel and cobalt (cathode materials). The shortage in cobalt is especially acute. If cobalt-free batteries remain underdeveloped, the production of Co will have to increase up to an order of magnitude to satisfy the future demand. Additionally, extraction and processing of transition metals might be harmful to the environment and is typically energy-intensive.
answer: copper