Solving the challenges of battery recycling

This is how the recycling process works

The first step is grinding of the battery modules in a large mill.

“Even though the batteries should have been discharged before being delivered to us, we must consider the risk that the discharging hasn’t been completed. To reduce the fire risk, the grinding is done in a low-oxygen environment.”

This is followed by an advanced, mechanical process to separate the different fractions to recover valuable metals, but also plastics and solvents.

“Mechanical sorting processes are at the core of our competence, and we’ve many years of expertise to rely on. That’s why we can proudly say that we’ll be able to recycle at least 95 percent of the battery, not only the valuable minerals.”  

The recycled fraction that contains minerals, such as nickel, cobalt and lithium is separately divided into a product called black mass.

“The process of recycling batteries creates dust, which can be hazardous to health. Therefore, the process is closed to create a dust free working environment for our staff.”

Circular partner to the industry

The black mass is delivered to industrial partners who refine it via a hydrometallurgical process, enabling the metals to ultimately be used in the production of new battery cells.

“That’s one of the most stimulating aspects of my job, that we’ve both inbound and outbound customers. We never know exactly what kind of battery material that we receive for recycling. There are different kinds of materials and chemicals depending on the manufacturer. Since our outbound customers have their specific demands, we must work like an accordion and adjust our process so that we always deliver the highest possible quality to our outbound customers. The higher the quality of the recycled raw material, the easier it will be to use it in the production of new batteries.”

Stena Recycling is part of the Stena Metall Group, a family-owned company which has worked with recycling for more than 80 years.

“Our new facility in Sweden is the first of its kind within the Stena Metall Group. I’m proud to be part of this journey. Delegated business acumen is a central part of our company culture, which means that we’re encouraged to take responsibility for our business. It creates pressure to meet expectations, but you also have the mandate to change and develop. It gives the best value, both for us and for our customers,” concludes Carina Petersson.