Altilium, a UK-based clean technology company dedicated to supporting the transition to net zero, has launched its recycling operations for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The initial batch of batteries being processed originates from a leading global manufacturer of electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
This development shows Altilium’s commitment to building a sustainable domestic supply chain for critical battery materials and minimizing the environmental impacts of battery production. Utilizing its proprietary EcoCathodeTM technology, Altilium is able to recover over 97% of lithium and 99% of graphite from LFP batteries, facilitating their reuse in new battery manufacturing. This efficient recovery process not only enhances the viability of recycling LFP batteries but also assists automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in achieving regulatory compliance and sustainability objectives.
As LFP battery technology becomes increasingly prevalent in the UK’s EV and energy storage systems (ESS) markets, Altilium’s recycling capabilities are set to play a crucial role in ensuring these technologies remain sustainable and resource-efficient. Although nickel cobalt manganese (NMC) batteries currently dominate the EV market, the growing adoption of LFP batteries presents new opportunities for recycling and resource conservation.
According to the Advanced Propulsion Centre, the market share of LFP batteries in the UK EV sector is projected to rise from 18% in 2027 to 25% by 2035. This shift poses challenges for recyclers, as the materials in LFP batteries—iron and phosphate—are less valuable compared to those in NMC batteries. Altilium addresses this by focusing on the recovery of lithium, a high-value material, and recycling graphite for use in new anodes.
Dr. Christian Marston, Altilium’s Chief Operating Officer, stated, “The rise of LFP batteries presents both challenges and opportunities for recyclers. At Altilium, we are pioneering solutions to ensure these batteries are not only recovered but also contribute to a circular battery economy in the UK. Our EcoCathodeTM technology enables the efficient extraction of lithium and graphite, making LFP recycling both commercially viable and environmentally essential.”
In addition to recycling LFP batteries, Altilium is currently processing NMC batteries from two major UK automotive OEMs and production scrap from Gigafactories at its ACT1 and ACT2 facilities in Devon. The recently launched ACT2 plant in Plymouth can recover lithium and other battery metals from 300 kilograms of black mass waste daily, equivalent to one EV battery. Altilium’s planned Teesside hub aims to become one of Europe’s largest EV battery recycling facilities, with the capacity to process scrap from over 150,000 EVs annually and accommodate a mix of battery chemistries, including LFP.
Source: Altilium
