Efficient lithium recycling for electromobility and sustainable energy storage

We recycle lithium-ion batteries efficiently, sustainably, and using closed-loop technology.

Recycling considering resources from a single source: Lithium-ion batteries in any state —from non-critical to critical being not safe for transport or burnt batteries — cannot only be recycled by us but also processed into new raw materials. Our all-inclusive service includes consultation, packaging, transport, and recycling, without long transport routes or additional contacts.

How does the lithium-ion battery recycling process work?

Our process combines thermal deactivation, mechanical and further hydrometallurgical processing. This unique combination enables us to produce high-quality chemicals which can be directly returned into battery production.

What are the benefits of closed-loop recycling?

The closed-loop recycling allows to bring the produced chemicals directly into production of new batteries. This not only conserves resources but also ensures compliance with current and future EU requirements for the use of recycled materials, such as the Critical Raw Materials Act. Therefore, valuable materials remain within the European circular economy, the resilience of supply chains is increased, and waste is to become new products.

Which lithium batteries can be recycled?

We recycle a wide range of batteries, from single energy storage modules and EV batteries to containerized solutions for stationary energy storage systems. Our process can handle all battery types, including cells, modules, batteries, and complete vehicle underbodies. We also recycle batteries in any state - safe for transport, critical, or burnt - having a state-of-charge ranging from 0 % to 100 %.

Our recycling process at Nickelhütte Aue

We manage the entire recycling process for your lithium-ion batteries - from first consultation until final recycling certificate. The process starts with consulting and initial assessment to gather information about your material for preparing a customized recycling and transport offer. Afterwards, we handle all waste management compliance, organize the collection of the batteries for being recycled professionally at our site. Finally, we issue a recycling certificate that records the volume, process, and date of recycling. This certificate not only ensures legal certainty but also builds trust.

Hydrometallurgy as a unique selling point

While many recyclers stop after mechanical processing, leaving only black mass, we take a decisive step further. Our hydrometallurgical process – a process that has been established for centuries and continuously enhanced and refined by our R&D – enables us by multiple leaching, purification, and crystallization steps to chemically extract pure nickel, cobalt, copper, and lithium salts which are needed for manufacturing new lithium-ion batteries. This advanced process ensures that we not only recover raw materials but also produce valuable chemicals that are returned directly into battery production.

Battery types recycled at Nickelhütte Aue

We recycle a wide range of lithium-ion and industrial batteries for commercial customers. Our capabilities cover batteries from a wide range of applications and cell chemistries:

  • Lithium-ion batteries: Including EV batteries, BEVs (battery electric vehicles), PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles), and other e-mobility applications.
  • Battery types by cell chemistry: Nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC), nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lithium titanate (LTO), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), nickel-cadmium (NiCd), and other emerging technologies.
  • Applications of the batteries to be recycled: Our recycling solutions cover a wide range of applications, including:
    • Electric vehicle batteries for private and commercial use (commercial vehicles, buses, rail, and passenger cars)
    • Energy storage systems for residential and industrial applications

Experience

We rely long-term business relationships, tradition, and progress since 1635.

Closed-loop recycling

High recycling efficiency that already meets future EU requirements.

One-stop solution

All services from a single source—short transport routes and efficient, local recycling.

Enhanced safety for critical battery conditions

Critical batteries are unpacked only immediately before processing. Our employees are specially trained and qualified to handle critical batteries safely and professionally.

We place the trust of our customers and climate-friendly processes at the heart of everything we do. We focus on sustainable recycling processes that not only recover valuable raw materials, but also actively contribute to reduce CO2 emissions. Our customers can rely on us to consistently meet their requirements regarding quality, safety, and sustainability.
Patrick Renner (Head of department)

We have annual recycling capacities of 8,000 to 10,000 tonnes and provide efficient solutions for large volumes.

No. We focus exclusively on commercial customers and offer tailored recycling solutions for businesses.

Yes. Our all-inclusive service includes comprehensive advice on waste management and transport regulations to ensure full legal compliance.

No. Our recycling process is environmentally friendly and sustainable. We use climate-friendly technologies and closed-loop recycling to recover valuable raw materials and keep them within the European circular economy. Our technology minimizes CO2 emissions and reduces the consumption of primary resources. All process steps comply with strict environmental protection standards.

No. We work exclusively with specialized transport partners experienced in the safe shipment of batteries and hazardous waste.

Your personal offer

Request a personalized quotation or schedule a consultation now - we will help you recycle your batteries safely and sustainably.

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