n### Licovolt and Pure Battery Technologies Forge Partnership to Revolutionize Lasting Battery Production
In a groundbreaking move,University College Dublin spin-out Licovolt and Australia-based Pure Battery Technologies (PBT) have signed a joint progress deal aimed at transforming the production of sustainable battery materials for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing clean energy solutions and supporting the global transition to electrification [[1]].
Licovolt, co-founded by UCD scientists Associate Professor Tony Keene and Associate Professor Steven Ferguson, has developed an innovative method for recycling spent lithium-cobalt batteries. This technology not only reduces costs but also significantly lowers CO2 emissions compared to traditional recycling methods.The company’s breakthrough aligns perfectly with PBT’s mission to refine raw materials into high-grade precursor Cathode Active Material (pCAM) for lithium-ion batteries [[1]].
PBT’s refinery in Hagen, germany, currently produces around 2,000 tonnes of nickel products annually. Plans are already in motion to expand operations,with a new state-of-the-art refinery set to produce up to 12,000 tonnes of pCAM each year. Using green technology, PBT refines materials like Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP) and recycled battery black mass into clean, high-grade pCAM, essential for the production of EV batteries [[1]].
Licovolt’s technology, which processes precursor materials to produce both Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) CAM, seamlessly complements PBT’s existing operations.clint Zahmel, Executive Director of Licovolt, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Licovolt’s agreement with PBT has the potential to springboard Licovolt’s technology as well as provide a valuable addition to PBT’s facilities.”
Bjorn Zikarsky, CEO of PBT, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the synergy between the two companies. ”PBT and Licovolt have a great team of people and importantly have the ability to rapidly scale Licovolt’s technology given our operating facility in Hagen,” he added.
this collaboration not only strengthens the supply chain for sustainable battery materials but also positions both companies as key players in the global push toward electrification. By combining their expertise, Licovolt and PBT are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in the EV industry [[1]].
Key Highlights of the Licovolt-PBT Partnership
| aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Collaboration Goal | Transform production of sustainable battery materials for the EV industry |
| Licovolt’s Innovation| Recycling spent lithium-cobalt batteries at reduced cost and CO2 emissions |
| PBT’s Contribution | Refining raw materials into high-grade pCAM for lithium-ion batteries |
| Expansion Plans | New refinery to produce up to 12,000 tonnes of pCAM annually |
| Location | Hagen, Germany |
this partnership is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in driving the clean energy revolution. as the world moves closer to a sustainable future, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping the EV industry and beyond.
Licovolt and pure Battery Technologies Join Forces to Drive Sustainable Battery Innovation
In a landmark collaboration, Licovolt, a spin-out from University College dublin, and Australian-based Pure Battery Technologies (PBT) have partnered to revolutionize the production of sustainable battery materials for the electric vehicle (EV) industry. This alliance aims to accelerate the global transition to clean energy by combining cutting-edge recycling technology with advanced refining processes.With both companies bringing unique expertise to the table, this partnership promises to reshape the EV battery supply chain and reduce the environmental footprint of battery production.
The Vision Behind the Partnership
Senior Editor: Dr.Keira Mitchell,thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with the big picture. What drove licovolt and Pure battery Technologies to form this partnership?
Dr. Keira Mitchell: Thank you for having me. The partnership between Licovolt and PBT is driven by a shared vision of sustainability and innovation in the EV sector. Licovolt has developed a groundbreaking method for recycling spent lithium-cobalt batteries, which significantly reduces both costs and CO2 emissions.On the other hand, PBT specializes in refining raw materials into high-quality precursor Cathode active Material (pCAM) essential for lithium-ion batteries. By combining these strengths, the two companies aim to create a more sustainable and efficient supply chain for EV battery materials.
Licovolt’s Recycling Breakthrough
Senior Editor: Can you elaborate on Licovolt’s technology and why it’s such a game-changer for battery recycling?
Dr. Keira Mitchell: Absolutely. Licovolt’s technology focuses on recycling spent lithium-cobalt batteries, which are widely used in EVs and consumer electronics. Traditional recycling methods are often energy-intensive and produce high levels of CO2. Licovolt’s process, however, is far more efficient. It not only lowers production costs but also reduces environmental impact by minimizing emissions. This innovation is critical as the demand for EV batteries continues to grow, and the industry seeks ways to manage end-of-life batteries sustainably.
PBT’s Role in refining Raw Materials
Senior Editor: Turning to PBT, how does their refining process complement Licovolt’s recycling technology?
Dr.Keira Mitchell: PBT’s expertise lies in transforming raw materials, such as Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP) and recycled battery black mass, into high-grade pCAM. This material is a critical component in the production of lithium-ion batteries.By integrating Licovolt’s recycled materials into their refining process, PBT can produce pCAM at scale while maintaining high environmental standards. Their existing refinery in Hagen, Germany, is already a hub for producing nickel-based products, and with plans to expand, this partnership will significantly boost their capacity to meet growing demand.
Expansion Plans and Global Impact
Senior Editor: What are the expansion plans for this partnership, and how will it impact the global EV market?
Dr. Keira Mitchell: The partnership includes plans to build a state-of-the-art refinery capable of producing up to 12,000 tonnes of pCAM annually. This expansion will not only enhance production capacity but also strengthen the supply chain for sustainable battery materials. As the EV market continues to grow, the availability of eco-kind, cost-effective materials will be crucial. This collaboration positions both companies as leaders in the clean energy revolution, helping to accelerate the global transition to electrification.
Key Challenges and Future Outlook
senior Editor: What challenges do you foresee, and how do you envision the future of this partnership?
dr.keira Mitchell: One of the key challenges will be scaling up production while maintaining the high environmental standards both companies are committed to. However, with Licovolt’s innovative recycling technology and PBT’s proven refining capabilities, I believe they are well-equipped to overcome these hurdles. Looking ahead,this partnership has the potential to set new benchmarks for sustainability in the battery industry. It’s a shining example of how collaboration and innovation can drive meaningful change in the journey toward a greener future.
Conclusion
The partnership between Licovolt and Pure Battery Technologies represents a significant stride in the development of sustainable battery materials. By combining recycling expertise with advanced refining processes,the two companies are addressing critical challenges in the EV industry while contributing to the global clean energy transition.This collaboration not only strengthens the supply chain for battery materials but also underscores the importance of innovation in building a more sustainable future.
