tozero’s technology centers on a sophisticated hydrometallurgical process that efficiently recovers materials from used lithium-ion batteries. This method operates at lower temperatures and with reduced chemical intensity compared to traditional recycling approaches, resulting in approximately 70% fewer emissions than conventional mining operations. The process begins with careful discharge and dismantling of batteries, followed by crushing them into a fine powder known as black mass. Through proprietary chemical treatment, tozero can recover up to 97% of valuable materials and is the first European company capable of recovering lithium at this scale. Their feedstock-agnostic capabilities allow processing of various battery types while maintaining high-quality output, creating a closed-loop system for new battery production.
In 2024, tozero secured €11 million in seed funding to construct its first industrial-scale recycling facility, scheduled to begin operations by 2026 with a capacity of 30,000 tonnes of battery waste annually. The company also established strategic partnerships with major Chinese battery manufacturers and expanded its presence in Asia using Hong Kong as an entry point.
Tozero raised a €11M seed round led by NordicNinja with participation from Honda Motor and JGC Group via Mirai Corporate Venture Capital. Existing investors include Atlantic Labs, Verve Ventures and Possible Ventures. In-Q-Tel joined as a strategic investor. The European Innovation Council also provided a €2.5M grant.
