Registration/Morning Reception

Chair’s Opening Remarks

Co-Chair: Andreas Skuin, Geschäftsführer, ESG Partners

EU Battery Recycling Market Outlook And Strategic Implications

Maximilian Wegner, Senior Project Manager, Roland Berger

The EU Battery Recycling Market is at a pivotal juncture, driven by rapid advancements in battery technology, increasing demand for (EVs), and stringent regulations. This session aims to delve into the current landscape, emerging trends, and future prospects of battery recycling. By exploring regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and strategic opportunities, we will uncover how stakeholders can navigate the complexities of this evolving market and capitalize on the burgeoning growth potential. 

• How will the market volume for battery recycling develop in Europe?

• Are there enough feedstock materials to meet the EU targets for minimum recycling content by 2031/36?

• What is the economic viability of recycling and how high are the future break-even acquisition costs for EOL batteries?

• How is the battery recycling value chain currently structured? Are major changes to be expected?

• What are the key success factors and strategic implications for stakeholders along the value chain?

Enhancing EV Battery Sustainability: Ford Otosan’s Collaboration With EU Circular Economy Projects

Cansın Bozbay, Product Sustainability Engineer, Ford Otosan

The presentation will focus on innovative recycling and reuse projects, highlighting Ford Otosan’s collaboration with European Union-funded initiatives aimed at reclaiming raw materials and enhancing sustainability throughout the battery life-cycle. 

Battery Circularity Initiatives:

• Overview of ongoing European projects aimed at improving battery recycling and reuse

• Insights into how these initiatives align with EU regulations and sustainability goals

BATRAW Project Highlights:

• Development of semi-automated battery pack dismantling and efficient pre-treatment processes

• Introduction to hydro-metallurgical recycling pilot systems designed to deliver battery-grade secondary materials

• Creation of eco-design guidelines for battery pack repair and dismantling

• Demonstration of a block-chain platform for raw material tracking and supply chain transparency

Internal Reuse Project:

• Utilization of production scraps for energy storage

• Project details on storing 142.2 kWh to charge multiple electric vehicles or hybrids

Direct Recycling: New Opportunities For A Sustainable Battery Value Chain

Markus Borck, Senior Advisor, CellCircle

CellCircle is pioneering a disruptive direct recycling process for lithium-ion batteries. This innovative approach recovers functional materials without destroying them, resulting in ready-to-use materials for battery cell production, whilst offering significant environmental and economic benefits. The presentation will highlight the advantages of direct recycling, emphasizing its role in enhancing the sustainability of the battery value chain, supported by recent projects and comprehensive life-cycle assessment.

While direct recycling of electric vehicle (EV) batteries offers significant environmental and economic benefits, it also faces several challenges. These challenges must be addressed to make direct recycling a viable and widely adopted method for managing end-of-life batteries.

• Understand the technical complexities of material recovery and purity in direct recycling

• Strategies for achieving high-efficiency separation of valuable materials from batteries without contamination

• Explore solutions for handling diverse battery chemistries and designs

• Learn about scaling and automating recycling processes for efficiency and safety

• Learn about the direct recycling process for lithium-ion batteries, to avoid material destruction and facilitate the efficient regeneration and reuse of functional materials, leading to high-quality outputs

• Discover how direct recycling can significantly reduce the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and chemical waste associated with traditional recycling methods, while also providing an economically viable solution for recycling less valuable battery chemistries – like lithium iron phosphate

• Gain insights into the importance of comprehensive life-cycle assessments and disaggregated data in comparing the environmental impacts of different recycling processes

• Understand the role of validated and specific data in driving cleaner, more sustainable recycling practices

Building Localized Circular Recycling Networks

Arturo Pérez de Lucia, Director General/General Manager, AEDIVE

The session will explore the intricacies of establishing localized recycling infrastructure; including logistical, technological, and regulatory considerations. Understand the importance of localized recycling for sustainability, identify strategies to overcome barriers in establishing circular recycling networks, and explore innovative approaches to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of lithium-ion battery recycling at a local level. Gain insights to contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient recycling ecosystems for lithium-ion batteries.

• Identify and implement strategies to overcome logistical, technological, and regulatory barriers in establishing circular recycling networks

• Explore innovative approaches to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of lithium-ion battery recycling at the local level

• Gain insights to contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient recycling ecosystems for lithium-ion batteries

Maximizing Cost Efficiency And Profit Margins In EV Battery Recycling

Julian Englberger, Head of Operations Management, PowerCo SE

This session will focus on the paramount challenge of cost management and profit maximization in the EV battery recycling industry. As recyclers strive to maintain economic viability, understanding how to optimize operational costs and improve profit margins is crucial. This session will delve into cost-reduction strategies, innovative technologies, and business models that enhance profitability. 

Introduction to Cost Challenges in EV Battery Recycling

• Overview of the financial landscape in EV battery recycling

• Key cost factors impacting recyclers and their profit margins

Identifying Major Cost Drivers

• Analysis of the primary cost drivers in the recycling process, including material handling, labor, technology, and regulatory compliance

• Strategies for managing and reducing these costs

Innovative Cost-Reduction Strategies

• Leveraging automation and advanced technologies to streamline operations and reduce labor costs

• Implementing efficient material recovery processes to maximize the value extracted from recycled batteries

Optimizing Operational Efficiency

• Best practices for improving operational efficiency and reducing waste

• Techniques for optimizing supply chain management to lower costs

• Using data analytics to identify inefficiencies and drive continuous improvement

Exploring Profitable Business Models

• Innovative business models that enhance profitability in battery recycling

• Opportunities for value-added services, such as refurbishing and second-life applications for EV batteries

Maximizing Revenue Streams

• Diversifying revenue streams through the sale of recovered materials and by-products

• Exploring partnerships and collaborations to expand market reach and increase sales

• Case study: Revenue generation through innovative market strategies

Financial Planning and Risk Management

• Developing robust financial plans to manage costs and ensure profitability

• Identifying and mitigating financial risks in the recycling business

• Utilizing financial tools and software for better budgeting and cost control

Innovations And Challenges In Designing EV Battery Packs For Circularity And Efficient Recycling

Melanie Reichinger, R&D Expert – Circular Economy & Materials, PEM RWTH Aachen University

This session will dive into the forefront of EV battery design, charting the journey from early battery innovations to the sophisticated lithium-ion systems driving today’s electric vehicles (EVs). Our focus will be on unlocking new strategies for battery circularity and maximizing recycling efficiency—key factors in the future of sustainable mobility.

We will investigate the architecture and chemistry of modern batteries, explore disruptive trends reshaping the industry, and analyze how evolving regulations are driving advancements in EV battery design. Through case studies on Volvo and Tesla battery systems, as well as emerging solid-state technologies, we’ll confront the pressing challenges of disassembly and recycling.

Beyond conventional methods, this session will spotlight reverse design thinking and its potential to revolutionize automated dismantling and recycling. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on implementing forward-thinking design innovations and circular practices that fuse sustainability with cutting-edge recycling solutions—paving the way for future breakthroughs in the EV ecosystem.

Repurposing Strategies For End-Of-Life EV Batteries

Sebastian Bujnoch, Senior Business Development Manager, Circunomics

Circunomics is a German start-up focused on creating a circular economy for (EV) batteries. They have developed an innovative platform that combines data analytics and a marketplace to facilitate the reuse and recycling of EV batteries.

• Establishing a comprehensive Battery Lifecycle Management Solution

• Creating Europe’s largest B2B marketplace for battery trade 

• Combining the B2B marketplace with advanced, AI powered analytics

• Closing the loop – from the shredder to raw material extraction

Morning Networking Break

PANEL

Breaking Barriers In EV Battery Recycling: Strategies For Success

Moderator: Ferdinand Ferstl, Associate Partner | E-Mobility Industrialization, P3 automotive GmbH

Panelists:

Nikola Vekić, EV Battery Sustainability & Circular Economy Expert, McKinsey & Company

Patrick Peter, Director, Resources & Circular Economy, adelphi 

Markus Volkening, Manager, FEV Consulting

Achieving Regulatory Compliance: Understand the complexities of regulatory compliance in the battery recycling industry; learn best practices for navigating and adhering to regulatory requirements.

Leveraging Technological Advancements: Discover cutting-edge technologies that are addressing recycling challenges; learn how to implement these technologies to improve recycling outcomes.

Navigating Market Dynamics: Gain insights into the market dynamics influencing battery recycling; explore strategies to adapt to and thrive in the evolving market landscape.

Enabling BMS For Battery Passport And 2nd Life

Wolfgang Novak, Principal Engineer Battery Systems, Infineon Technologies

BMS and Battery Regulation

• Intention of the Regulation

• Influence of the BMS

• Improving Car efficiency

• Performance, Lifetime, Security, Data Logging
  

General Information on Battery Passport

• Information contained in the Electronic record

• Format of the data

• Information for different user groups
  

Showcase “How to safe important battery performance data”

• Example

Future Trends and impacts on recycling business

• Wireless

• Digital Twin

• Integration

• Communication
  

Optimizing Battery Recycling With LIMS: Enhancing Scalability, Traceability, And Sustainability

Burcu Önder, Global Strategic Key Accounts Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific

In this presentation, you will learn how Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) can help battery recyclers scale their operations, reduce waste, and ensure traceability. As advanced batteries evolve, the manufacturing and recycling processes also advance, requiring extensive analysis to ensure materials have the correct composition and purity for optimal performance. To achieve cost efficiency and minimize environmental impact, manufacturers must navigate complex steps and improve resource utilization.

Managing and tracing large amounts of data from various battery types and their recycling stages is essential for accurate tracking. Providing scientists and management with access to precise data is crucial for producing reliable results and actionable reports. By leveraging digital solutions, battery recyclers can overcome these challenges and enhance their laboratory practices, ultimately improving their operations and sustainability efforts.

• A Changing and Challenging Landscape

  • Key challenges faced by labs today in the battery labs

• Digital Transformation journey of the laboratories

  • Upstream through downstream data flow for the complete organizational knowledge

  • Connected, Automated and Intelligent Laboratories

  • Considerations for selecting the LIMS for your needs

• Meeting the Needs of Modern Battery Recyclers: 

  • Growing Traceability and Transparency Requirements 

  • Driving repeatable and reliable QA/QC testing 

  • Connecting the data for the most efficient use of technology

  • Creating a single repository for research and development testing data

  • Regulatory compliance with data integrity to standards such as ISO 17025

Closing The European Loop in Battery Production With Secondary Raw Materials

Benjamin Bauer, Development Engineer, Fortum Batterie Recycling GmbH

Creating a sustainable and circular economy in Europe for battery production by using recycled materials. Instead of relying solely on newly mined raw materials, the goal is to use materials recovered from used batteries and other sources (secondary sources). This approach aims to reduce environmental impact, enhance resource efficiency, and ensure a more sustainable supply chain for battery manufacturing in Europe.

Industrial Scale Production of Secondary Nickel, Cobalt, Manganese, Lithium, and Other Materials: Explore the methodologies and technologies that enable the large-scale production of secondary raw materials such as Nickel, Cobalt, Manganese, and Lithium from recycled batteries. Understand the economic and environmental benefits of industrial-scale recycling and how it contributes to the sustainability of the supply chain.

Closing the Loop and Adding Value in the Production Process: Learn strategies to create a closed-loop system in battery production, ensuring that materials are continuously recycled and reused. Discuss ways to enhance the value chain by integrating recycling processes into the production life-cycle, thereby reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.

Service Offers for Waste Handling by Battery Producers, Manufacturers, and Waste Management Companies: Examine the range of services available to battery producers, manufacturers, and waste management companies for efficient waste handling. This includes collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal services that comply with environmental regulations and support sustainable practices.

Challenges in Battery Recycling Processes: Identify and analyze the key challenges faced in the battery recycling industry, including technical, economic, and regulatory obstacles. Discuss potential solutions and innovations that can address these challenges, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of recycling processes and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Powering The Future: Navigating The New EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542

Kai Kramer, Managing Director of EARN Elektroaltgeräte Service GmbH & representative of European Recycling Industries Confederation (EuRIC) and Electrocycling GmbH

EU Regulation 2023/1542 introduces a comprehensive legislative framework for managing the life-cycle of batteries within the European Union. Replacing the previous Battery Directive 2006/66/EC, this regulation aims to enhance the sustainability, safety, and efficiency of batteries, with particular emphasis on waste management obligations for EV battery producers. This session will provide a practical overview of the new obligations for manufacturers and distributors, highlighting compliance steps and end-of-life treatment requirements for waste batteries.

Understand the New Regulatory Framework:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of EU Regulation 2023/1542 and its implications for battery life-cycle management

• Learn about the phased implementation of provisions and the timeline for compliance

Explore Waste Battery Compliance Steps:

• Review the practical steps for manufacturers and distributors to comply with waste battery management obligations

• Understand end-of-life treatment requirements and the importance of proper disposal and recycling

Examine Producer and Distributor Obligations:

• Understand the registration and extended producer responsibility (EPR) requirements for battery producers

• Learn about the obligations of distributors in the collection and management of waste batteries

Achieve Recycling and Recovery Targets:

• Explore the targets for recycling efficiency and material recovery under the new regulation

• Learn best practices for meeting these targets and enhancing sustainability

Navigate Shipment and Reporting Requirements:

• Understand the regulations for the shipment of waste batteries and the necessary documentation

• Learn about the minimum reporting requirements to competent authorities and how to ensure compliance

Prepare for Future Compliance Demands:

• Look ahead to additional compliance requirements post-2025, including environmental and sustainability aspects, material content, battery performance, labeling, communication, and supply chain tracking

• Understand the provisions for refurbished batteries and the impact on EV battery producers

PANEL

Decoding Cell Chemistry: Navigating LFP Vs. NMC And Beyond, Ensuring Market Independence And Overcoming Core Material Challenges (Lithium Iron Phosphate Vs. Nickel Manganese Cobalt)

Moderator: Arnd Böhler, Manager Center of Competence (CoC) Recycling / Recycling for eComponents, Daimler Truck AG

Panelists: Sarah Fleischer, CEO and Co-Founder, tozero GmbH

The panel will delve into the intricacies of battery recycling, focusing on the comparative analysis of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) chemistries, as well as other emerging variants. The discussion will emphasize strategies for achieving market independence by reducing reliance on Chinese markets for critical materials. Additionally, the session will explore the recycling challenges associated with core materials like graphite, addressing concerns and seeking innovative solutions to ensure stability and sustainability in the EV battery supply chain.

• Comparative Analysis of Cell Chemistries: Explore the differences between Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) chemistries, along with emerging variants, and their implications for EV battery recycling.

• Strategies for Market Independence: Discuss strategies to reduce reliance on Chinese markets for critical materials in EV battery production and recycling, aiming for greater market independence and sustainability.

• Addressing Challenges in Core Materials: Identify challenges related to core materials like graphite in the EV battery supply chain and seek solutions to ensure stability and sustainability in recycling processes.

Networking Lunch Break

The Future Of EV Battery Recycling Practices: Digitalisation, AI And Automation

Dr. Dominik Budday, Product Owner @ Battery Solutions – Adaptive Recycling, Siemens AG

In this presentation, we explore the transformative impact of digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation on recycling practices, particularly within the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Attendees will gain insights into how these technologies are revolutionizing the way recycling is approached, improving efficiency, and driving sustainability. By leveraging cutting-edge advancements, stakeholders in EV manufacturing, battery production, and recycling can enhance their operations, reduce environmental footprints, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

Understanding Technological Integration:

• Learn how digitalization, AI, and automation are being integrated into recycling processes to improve efficiency and accuracy

• Discover the specific technologies and tools that are driving these advancements in the EV sector

Enhancing Sustainability and Efficiency:

• Explore how these technologies contribute to more sustainable recycling practices, minimizing waste and optimizing resource recovery

• Analyze case studies demonstrating significant improvements in recycling outcomes through technological innovation

Future Trends and Innovations:

• Gain insights into emerging trends and future developments in recycling technology that will shape the EV industry’s sustainability efforts

• Prepare for upcoming changes and opportunities by understanding the trajectory of digital and automated recycling solutions

Innovative Automation Solutions For Efficient And Safe EV Battery Recycling

Dr. Andreas Letsch, Director Center of Competence Factory Automation Battery, Bosch Rexroth

The surge in electric vehicle adoption has heightened the demand for efficient recycling processes for vehicle batteries.  Addressing the challenges of labor-intensive and hazardous battery recycling, Bosch Rexroth has pioneered an automation solution for the deep discharge and dismantling of battery modules.  Recent partnerships have shown that this innovative solution significantly reduces the time and risks associated with battery recycling. This presentation delves into the key challenges faced by many organisations and showcases how this cutting-edge technology transforms these processes to support a sustainable and efficient circular economy in Europe.

Understanding Automation Benefits in Battery Recycling:

• Learn how this revolutionary automated system for deep discharging and dismantling battery modules drastically reduces process times up to less than 15 minutes, enhancing productivity and safety.

Exploring Modular and Scalable Solutions:

• Discover the flexibility and scalability of their EV Battery Recycling Suite, which allows for easy adaptation to varying quantities and evolving challenges in the battery recycling industry.

Integration and Efficiency Improvements:

• Understand how the TS 5 transfer system and ctrlX AUTOMATION platform streamline the recycling process, reducing power requirements and integrating seamlessly with existing IT structures to optimize resource recovery and minimize ecological impact.

PANEL

The Next Frontier In Sustainability:
EV Battery Recycling Start-ups Share Their Journey

Moderator: Julian Englberger, Head of Operations Management, PowerCo SE

Panelists:

Sarah Fleischer, CEO and Co-Founder, tozero GmbH

Julius Müller, Strategy Lead, Circu Li-ion S.A.

Alexander Vorndran, Vice President Operations, Voltfang GmbH

The panel assembles pioneering EV battery recycling start-ups to discuss their experiences, challenges, and innovations. The conversation will focus on overcoming technological, regulatory, and market hurdles, as well as exploring the future of sustainable battery recycling. Attendees will gain insights into the transformative potential of these start-ups in creating a circular economy for EV batteries.

Understanding Technological Innovations in Battery Recycling

• Explore the latest technologies being developed by start-ups to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of EV battery recycling

• Learn about the processes used to extract valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel from spent batteries

• Discuss the role of automation and AI in optimizing the recycling process

Navigating Regulatory and Market Challenges

• Identify the regulatory barriers that start-ups face in the EV battery recycling industry and strategies to overcome them

• Examine the market dynamics that impact the growth and scalability of battery recycling start-ups

• Understand the importance of policy support and international collaboration in fostering a sustainable recycling ecosystem

Building Strategic Partnerships for Sustainable Growth

• Discover how start-ups are forming alliances with electronic manufacturers and waste management firms to enhance their recycling operations

• Learn about successful case studies where partnerships have driven significant advancements in battery recycling

• Discuss the potential for cross-industry collaboration to develop a robust circular economy for EV batteries.

EU Policy Developments Around Waste Battery Collection And Recycling

Dr. Tom Vöge, Director Public Policy, GRS Service

The regulatory framework for the collection and recycling of waste batteries in the European Union (EU) is highly complex, with various relevant policy packages having been introduced over the last years as part of the EU‘s Green Deal ambitions for environmental, sustainability and climate leadership. These regulations impose ambitious collection targets, as well as strict environmental standards on the recycling process to minimise ecological impact. Meeting these stringent requirements requires far reaching changes to business practices and technological solutions.

• Setting the scene: Climate leadership vs. competitiveness vs. geopolitics

• Overview of current EU policies around waste battery collection and recycling

• Ambitious targets for collection, recycling, efficiency, and recycled content

• Implications for take back schemes and extended producer responsibility

• Key challenges faced by the recycling industry in navigating these regulations

• Phasing in of targets and policies plus upcoming secondary legislation

• EU-wide EPR services for EV batteries through the RENEOS partnership

• Digitalisation and the “Battery Pass” as Digital Product Passport (DPP) for batteries

Networking Break

Addressing Waste Management Challenges In Electric Vehicle Battery Recycling

Philipp Brunotte, Co-Founder, LiBCycle GmbH

A focus on the critical issue of waste management in the recycling of (EV) batteries. As the adoption of EVs continues to rise, managing the waste generated from battery recycling processes becomes increasingly vital. The session will delve into the key concerns and challenges faced by recyclers, exploring strategies to mitigate these issues effectively. 

Key Concerns in Waste Management

• Overview of the growing importance of effective waste management in EV battery recycling

• The environmental and economic implications of poor waste management practices

• Identification and categorization of waste types generated during the recycling of EV batteries (e.g., hazardous waste, electronic waste, residual materials)

• Environmental impacts of improper waste disposal

• Health and safety concerns associated with handling and processing battery waste

Challenges in EV Battery Waste Management

• Technical challenges in segregating and processing different waste streams

• Economic barriers to implementing comprehensive waste management systems

• Regulatory challenges and compliance requirements

Best Practices for Waste Management

• Strategies for effective waste segregation and material recovery

• Implementation of advanced recycling technologies to minimize waste

• Developing and following standardized protocols for waste handling and disposal

• Training and safety measures for personnel involved in waste management

Innovative Solutions and Technologies

• Introduction to emerging technologies in waste processing and recycling

• Role of artificial intelligence and automation in improving waste management

• Innovative approaches to repurposing and reusing battery waste materials

Regulatory Considerations and Compliance

• Overview of key regulations governing waste management in EV battery recycling

• Best practices for ensuring compliance with local, national, and international regulations

• Collaborating with regulatory bodies to develop sustainable waste management policies

Validation Of Anode And Cathode Active Materials From Direct Recycling: Electrochemical Performance In New Li-ion Cells

Marilena Mancini, Research Scientist Li-ion Batteries/Project Manager, Zentrum für Sonnenenergie- und Wasserstoff-Forschung Baden-Württemberg (ZSW)

The presentation focuses on the importance of recycling spent Li-ion batteries to secure future battery production and meet new EU regulations on recycled material content and recycling efficiency. Traditional recycling methods are energy-intensive and environmentally challenging, while the direct recycling approach offers a more sustainable solution by restoring cathode materials without breaking them down into single elements. The presentation demonstrates the application of direct recycling at the lab scale, including for graphite anodes, with promising results for scalable, efficient battery recycling.

• Understand the benefits and limitations of traditional versus direct recycling methods for Li-ion batteries

• Learn about the direct recycling process and its application to different battery materials, including cathode and anode materials

• Evaluate the potential for scalable direct recycling routes to enhance sustainability and meet regulatory standards in the battery industry

Key Challenges And Future Opportunities For Using Pyrometallurgy In (EV) Battery Recycling

Rémi Cornubert, Founder & President, Strat Anticipation

This session aims to provide an in-depth analysis of pyrometallurgical recycling for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, focusing on the current challenges and future opportunities. By exploring the economic, technological, and regulatory landscapes, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to optimize recycling processes and align them with sustainability goals. 

Understand the Economic Viability of Pyrometallurgical Recycling:

• Analyze how different battery cell chemistries impact the profitability of pyrometallurgical recycling

• Evaluate the major cost drivers, including energy, material, and personnel costs

• Discuss the current market conditions and their influence on recycling economics

Identify and Mitigate Key Challenges:

• Examine the technical and operational challenges associated with pyrometallurgical recycling processes

• Assess the environmental and regulatory issues, particularly CO2 emissions and compliance with environmental standards

• Explore the technological and market uncertainties affecting the recycling landscape

Explore Technological Advancements and Process Optimization:

• Investigate recent advancements in pyrometallurgical techniques and pre-treatment processes

• Understand the role of automation in reducing operational costs and improving efficiency

• Highlight innovative technologies for improving material recovery rates, particularly for valuable metals like lithium

Future Opportunities

• Enhance material recovery rates and reduce energy consumption through improved pyrometallurgical techniques and advancements in pre-treatment steps

• Develop cost-effective methods for recovering lithium from slag to enhance the value proposition of pyrometallurgical recycling

Overcoming Challenges In Hydrometallurgical Recycling Of Battery Materials

Sebastian Hippmann, Postdoc, working group “Recycling & Green Battery”, Fraunhofer IKTS

This session will explore the complex challenges associated with the hydrometallurgical recycling process for battery materials, focusing on the extraction and purification of valuable metals from black mass. Attendees will gain insights into the technical, environmental, and economic obstacles and learn about innovative solutions and best practices to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of battery recycling.

Challenges in Processing Complex Feedstock: 

• Managing the variety of materials in batteries

• Techniques for effective initial separation and dealing with impurities

Chemical Handling and Safety Concerns

• Best practices for handling corrosive chemicals and ensuring worker safety

• Strategies for managing hazardous by-products and preventing environmental contamination

Efficiency and Selectivity in Metal Extraction

• Methods for treating and disposing of solid and liquid waste

• Approaches to optimize energy consumption and reduce the carbon footprint

Economic Viability of the Recycling Process

• Cost analysis of reagents and chemicals used in the process

• Impact of fluctuating market prices for recovered metals on profitability

Technological Challenges and Innovations

• Continuous process optimization to enhance efficiency and yield

• Scaling up from laboratory to industrial-scale operations

Regulatory and Compliance Issues

• Navigating environmental regulations and standards for recycling

• Ensuring recovered materials meet industry quality standards

Optimizing Pre-Treatment Process: Focus On Battery Disassembly

Varnika Agarwal, Battery Research Analyst, Rho Motion

This conference session will explore advanced strategies and methodologies for optimizing the disassembly of batteries to enhance recycling outcomes. With a focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with it.

• Introduction to Battery Disassembly for Recycling

• Discussing the Battery Demand this year

• Analysis of different battery chemistries (e.g., LFP, NMC, LCO, etc.) across different regions

• Introduction to pre-treatment

• Discussing different discharging methods

• Introduction to Battery Disassembly for Recycling

• Overview of the importance of efficient battery disassembly in the recycling process

• Current technical challenges and opportunities in battery disassembly

Chairs Closing Remarks

Co-Chair: Anja Köckritz, Beratung ELV, Recycling, Umwelt, AK Consulting

All Attendee Drinks Reception