Circularity in Li-ion Production and Recyling processes through Microparticle Control and Resource Efficiency (CircLion)

DREV, together with Chalmers Industriteknik, Verkor, EcoReset, and RISE, is launching the EITM project CircLion, qualifying DREV’s Vault Stationary system and its patent-pending Micro-Particle Canister with advanced filter technology by MANN+HUMMEL for product launch.

Production of Li-ion batteries requires maintaining contamination-free environments in dry and clean room conditions. This process releases large quantities of highly reactive and combustible black dust (cathode and anode microparticles). This dust can cause fires, explosions, pose inhalation hazards and interfere with production processes, lowering yields. Available tools are not adapted to the industry, with labor-intensive methods that rely heavily on water and chemicals, produce significant wastewater, and lead to production stoppage. Traditional dry techniques, such as dust collectors, fail to capture black dust particles effectively and do not facilitate the recycling of collected battery metal particles, leading to disposal of valuable and hazardous materials. Currently, there is no solution that addresses both the collection and recycling of these particles.

Project CircLion focuses on preparing DREV’s Vault Stationary system for market launch to tackle contamination in Li-ion battery production, recycling, and dismantling. The system features a patent-pending Micro-Particle Canister with advanced filter technology co-developed with MANN+HUMMEL. It efficiently captures the reactive black dust at the source while supporting the material recovery of these particles, enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The Vault Stationary safely stores and transports collected particles, mimicking a dry-room environment, preventing reactions and ensuring the safe handling and recovery of the active raw material. DREV’s innovative approach aligns with the growing demand for sustainability in the Li-ion battery value chain, ensuring a safer and more productive industry.

Facts
The project is financed by EITM and project partners are DREV, Verkor, EcoReset and Chalmers Industriteknik.