Cylib is a German startup specializing in lithium-ion battery recycling, with a primary focus on processing electric vehicle (EV) batteries and production scrap. Founded in 2022 by researchers from RWTH Aachen University, the company has developed an efficient, sustainable process for recovering valuable materials from end-of-life batteries. The founding team, consisting of Lilian Schwich, Paul Sabany, and Gideon Schwich, brings extensive experience in battery recycling, metallurgy, and sustainability. Their mission centers on establishing a closed-loop battery supply chain while minimizing environmental impact compared to traditional mining methods.
Battery Technology
Cylib’s proprietary recycling technology represents a significant advancement in sustainable battery material recovery. The process incorporates multiple stages: discharging, dismantling, mechanical treatment, thermal processing, and hydrometallurgical extraction. This method achieves over 90% recycling efficiency, surpassing future EU regulatory requirements.
The company’s patented pre-treatment technique significantly reduces acid usage during hydrometallurgical processes, minimizing environmental impact. The water-based lithium recovery system operates without harmful additives, while graphite extraction requires minimal chemical intervention. This approach results in considerably lower CO2 emissions compared to conventional recycling methods.
The process recovers essential materials including lithium, cobalt, nickel, aluminum, and manganese, producing high-quality recyclates suitable for new battery production. By 2026, their industrial facility in Dormagen will process approximately 30,000 tonnes of battery materials annually, establishing a substantial local supply chain for European manufacturers.
Recent Projects
In 2024, Cylib initiated construction of its first industrial-scale battery recycling facility at Chempark Dormagen, North Rhine-Westphalia. This plant, scheduled for completion in 2026, will create approximately 170 new jobs and process up to 60,000 EV batteries annually. The facility represents a significant step toward establishing European independence in battery material supply chains.
Investors
Cylib has secured substantial financial backing through multiple funding rounds. Their Series A round in 2024 raised €55 million, led by World Fund and Porsche Ventures. Additional investors include Bosch Ventures, DeepTech & Climate Fonds, NRW.Venture, VSquared Ventures, Speedinvest, and 10x Founders. The company previously raised €11.6 million in seed funding, demonstrating strong investor confidence in their technology and business model.
Business Details
Location: Aachen, Germany
Website: https://cylib.de
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/88658293
