Lithium-ion battery (LIB) circular supply chains (CSCs) present unique safety challenges among operation processes. Blockchain technology can be a promising solution for addressing these challenges, by enabling effective tracking and verification of safety-related information throughout the supply chain. However, how blockchain can mitigate safety issues from a supply chain perspective is poorly understood. This study proposes a theory-supported framework through intervention-based research (IBR) to provide guidance for LIB CSC safety management. The conceptual framework and theoretical propositions set the foundation for research on a comprehensive blockchain ecosystem specifically designed for CSC safety management. The framework includes the design of a blockchain architecture with capabilities tailored to address safety concerns, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, and the development of a safety measurement matrix. This study suggests research and practical directions which lay the groundwork for leveraging blockchain technology to improve safety management in LIB CSC. This research contributes to sustainable supply chains by proposing a conceptual framework for mitigating safety concerns in LIB CSC, paving the way for effective blockchain implementation. In addition, this study contributes to advancing the theoretical design understanding and application of blockchain technology in CSC safety management. 
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                            Digital Twins and Blockchain Fusion for Security in Metaverse-Driven Consumer Supply Chains
                        
                    
    
            In the rapidly growing consumer electronics industry, continuous innovation drives increasing demand for smart devices and advanced gadgets. However, this sector faces changing demands and complex supply chains due to the management of rapid technological advancements and consumer expectations. Seamless communication between suppliers and consumers is essential to optimize production processes, minimize waste, and enhance overall customer satisfaction. In response to these demands, this paper presents a solution that combines Digital Twins (DT) and blockchain to improve security and efficiency in metaverse-inspired consumer-oriented supply chains. Herein, DT is used to represent products in virtual spaces and blockchain secures sensitive information using encryption and access controls. Our objective is to create a transparent, secure, and user-friendly system where consumers and suppliers can interact in real-time to verify product details and access important information of featured tasks like warranties and payment settlement. Smart contracts automates these tasks to make processes faster and more reliable. Through experiments, we tested how well the system maintains product integrity, authenticates transactions, and supports consumer-oriented supply chain (CSC) operations. Comparative analysis shows that our approach improves security, performance, and scalability over existing methods. Furthermore, the proposed system not only enhances security, trust, and transparency in CSC but also sets a higher standard for consumer demands and satisfaction. The findings point to the potential solution for future innovations in metaverse-driven CSC management systems. 
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                            - Award ID(s):
- 2401928
- PAR ID:
- 10632339
- Publisher / Repository:
- IEEE
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- IEEE Transactions on Consumer Electronics
- Volume:
- 70
- Issue:
- 3
- ISSN:
- 0098-3063
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 5688 to 5697
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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