The rapid growth of lithium-ion batteries (LIB), particularly the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type, is crucial for Europe's green transition, as they power electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. LFP batteries are expected to account for nearly half of the global battery market by 2030. However, current recycling methods, which are designed for batteries containing expensive metals such as cobalt and nickel, are ineffective for LFP batteries, as they contain lower-value materials. This threatens Europe’s ability to meet the recycling targets set out in the European Batteries Regulation and the Critical Raw Materials Act. The ReUse project is addressing this urgent challenge by developing innovative direct recycling technologies. Unlike traditional methods, which break battery components down into their constituent elements, direct recycling restores these valuable components, including cathodes, graphite, binders and electrolytes, while preserving their functionality. This approach promises to be more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and economically viable. To achieve this, the ReUse project will develop automated sorting, discharge and disassembly processes tailored to LFP batteries. These processes will improve the separation and regeneration of active materials, conductive carbon and binders, enabling their high-purity recovery for reuse in battery production. These scalable solutions will reduce Europe’s reliance on imported raw materials, support a EU circular economy and help to achieve its climate goals by minimising environmental impact.
