Recycling spent batteries can help reduce environmental harm. This approach allows for an 80% cut in carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional raw material extraction.
The key component in lithium-ion battery anodes is graphite. Its crystalline structure efficiently stores and releases lithium ions, while synthetic versions enhance electrical conductivity and charging speed.
Experts have found a solution to the problems of material scarcity and environmental impact through the water-based OLiC technology (optimized lithium and graphite extraction). This method can recover up to 90% of the most sought-after metals in this category—including lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt, and manganese—from used batteries. Another advantage of this process is the ability to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 80% compared to conventional mining.
The resulting concentrate is suitable for producing next-generation anodes. According to experts, using recycled materials will bring the industry closer to its stated goal—achieving one kilogram of CO₂ equivalent per kilogram of graphite produced by 2030.
In early June, the Norwegian company Vianode signed a cooperation agreement with the German startup Cylib, as reported on the company’s website. Cylib specializes in environmentally friendly recycling and will be responsible for supplying graphite concentrate. This concentrate will be obtained through optimized water-based lithium and graphite extraction, achieving up to 90% efficiency and reducing CO₂ emissions by 80% compared to traditional mining. Vianode’s specialists plan to test it as part of anode materials. Production lines will be set up in Germany, while testing will take place in Norway.
If the pilot trials are successful, the parties will enter into a binding agreement. This new recycling method could reduce dependence on external raw material supplies while maintaining key battery characteristics—especially range and operating time for electric vehicles.
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