The German-Chilean PaNaBat project has officially launched a collaborative networking platform to advance sustainable approaches for battery raw materials, lithium extraction and recycling. Addressing environmental concerns associated with traditional lithium production—particularly water loss and ecosystem impacts in Chile’s Atacama Desert—the initiative brings together German and Chilean partners to develop resource- and energy-efficient technologies.
PaNaBat’s research network includes Universidad Católica del Norte’s Lithium I+D+i Center, Fraunhofer Chile and three Fraunhofer Institutes in Germany: the Institute for Silicate Research ISC (project coordination), the Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST, and the Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE. Together, they will investigate innovative methods such as direct lithium extraction (DLE), closed-loop evaporation and advanced life cycle analyses tailored to local conditions. These efforts aim to diversify and regionalize supply chains for lithium, cobalt, nickel and aluminum, supporting Europe’s emerging circular battery economy.
Key elements of the initiative include a digital information and networking portal designed to foster collaboration among research institutions, industrial partners and small to medium-sized enterprises. Early pilot projects will validate the platform’s structure and functionality, with additional external collaborations planned to accelerate technology transfer and commercialization.
In parallel, PaNaBat will develop automated battery disassembly, new sorting technologies and advanced recycling processes capable of recovering functional battery materials, not just elemental forms. Integrated Computational Life Cycle Engineering (ICLCE) will guide material and process development from the earliest design phases, enabling rapid scaling of robust, low-CO2 solutions for industrial application.
Running from February 2026 to January 2029 and funded with €450,000 by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space, PaNaBat aims to strengthen economic competitiveness, reduce dependence on critical raw materials and support sustainable growth in both Europe and Chile. An industry advisory board comprised of German and Chilean companies will oversee implementation and ensure practical relevance throughout the project’s duration.
Source: Fraunhofer Institute (ISC)
