cylib and Syensqo have successfully demonstrated a pilot-scale process to recover battery-grade lithium hydroxide from spent electric vehicle batteries. Conducted at a single processing line, the collaboration treated shredded electrode material—known as black mass—from both nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistries. The integrated approach combines cylib’s hydrometallurgical extraction with Syensqo’s solvent-based purification, leveraging the proprietary CYANEX® 936P extractant developed with engineering partner Tenova Advanced Technologies.
During the project, Syensqo processed several hundred liters of lithium-rich effluent supplied by cylib. Following solvent extraction, the material underwent purification, conversion, and crystallization steps, yielding high-purity lithium hydroxide.
‘Syensqo’s technology perfectly complements cylib’s hydrometallurgical process, enhancing both the yield and purity of recovered lithium,’ said Laurent Cohen, in charge of Strategic Development and Alliances for Mining Solutions at Syensqo. ‘By combining our expertise in solvent extraction with cylib’s process, we’re establishing a scalable, high-purity lithium recovery route aligned with Europe’s circular economy and battery regulation goals.’
‘This collaboration with Syensqo demonstrates our commitment to working continuously with partners to develop new processes and expand our technological leadership in battery recycling,’ said Matthias Breidenbach, Vice President Commercial at cylib. ‘By combining our innovative hydrometallurgical expertise with Syensqo’s advanced solvent extraction technology, we are setting new standards for lithium recovery efficiency and purity.’
The milestone advances requirements under the EU Battery Regulation (EU 2023/1542), which mandates a minimum 50% lithium recovery from battery waste by the end of 2027 and 80% by 2031. Both companies view this achievement as a key step toward closing the loop on critical battery materials and strengthening European supply chains.
Source: CYLIB Blog
