Where do car manufacturers recycle lithium-ion batteries?

Car manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz with Licular, whose recycling site is licenced in Kuppenheim (Southwest Germany), are expanding their own spoke and hub recycling capacities close to their production networks. Figure 1: Existing and announced recycling sites for lithium-ion batteries in Europe (as of June 2024)

How does a battery recycler work?

Spokes are capable of performing the first steps of battery recycling. In this process, spent batteries are discharged, disassembled and mechanically processed into the so-called black mass. This includes the cathode and anode active materials, which contain most of the valuable metals. Hubs can also perform the second stage of battery recycling.

Which companies recycle lithium ion batteries?

Some companies are already active in the battery industry or are established recyclers of lithium-ion batteries (e.g., Stena Recycling, Accurec, Redux and TES). In addition, OEMs such as Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have also established initial sites in Kuppenheim and Salzgitter.

What recyclates are used in battery production?

These are the active materials that make up the electrodes of the battery cells. The valuable metals cobalt, nickel and lithium are extracted individually in a multi-stage chemical process. These recyclates are of battery quality and therefore suitable for use in the production of new battery cells.

What role does recycling play in lithium-ion battery production?

Resource availability and environmental impact play a key role in lithium-ion battery (LIB) production. To minimize environmental impacts (such as carbon footprint) and reduce dependency on imported raw materials, recycling of LIB plays a central role for Europe.

Where should a battery recycling plant be located?

Proximity to battery material producers, battery cell producers or car manufacturers is a recognizable driver for the selection of recycling infrastructure locations, e.g. in central and eastern Germany, Hungary, northern France or on the Scandinavian coast. Many plants are being planned from pilot projects or smaller plants with expansion stages.