LIBREC AG is a Swiss company that specializes in closed-loop battery recycling, with a specific emphasis on lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles (EVs) and other applications. The company provides a complete lifecycle solution for battery materials, ensuring valuable components are continuously recycled back into production. Through its advanced recycling process, LIBREC achieves over 90% recovery rates for essential materials, including cobalt, nickel, lithium, manganese, copper, aluminum, graphite, and electrolytes. This approach significantly reduces waste and environmental impact while supporting sustainable e-mobility development.
Battery Technology
LIBREC’s technology centers on an innovative multi-step recycling process that stands out for its efficiency and environmental considerations. Unlike traditional methods, LIBREC’s process doesn’t involve burning or melting, resulting in minimal carbon emissions. The system begins with a careful discharge and dismantling phase, followed by precise shredding and drying of battery components.
The company’s process produces high-quality black mass from both production scraps and end-of-life batteries. This material serves as a valuable resource for manufacturing new batteries. A notable feature of LIBREC’s system is its energy efficiency – the process harnesses residual energy from old batteries to power approximately one-third of the plant’s operations. The company has also implemented advanced safety measures, including fireproof compartments for battery dismantling.
Through continuous technological advancement, LIBREC maintains a strong focus on automation and optimization of black mass characteristics. Their process achieves an industry-leading 97% recovery rate for critical materials, setting new standards for battery recycling efficiency.
Recent Projects
In late 2024, LIBREC will launch Switzerland’s largest EV battery recycling facility in Biberist, Solothurn. This plant aims to process 12,000 tonnes of batteries annually. The company has also initiated expansion plans across Europe, targeting a processing capacity of 10,000 tons of used batteries by 2035. These developments position LIBREC to become one of Europe’s top five car battery recyclers, addressing the growing demand for sustainable battery solutions.
Investors
LIBREC has secured significant financial backing from various strategic partners. Aurubis, a German commodities group and Europe’s leading nonferrous metals recycler, has invested in the company. Additional investors include Galliker Transport AG, a Lucerne-based logistics company, and a Swiss Family Office. The company received substantial support through a CHF 400,000 loan from the Federal Office for the Environment and a CHF 1 million grant from Innosuisse. Their seed funding round raised CHF 3 million, followed by another substantial investment in the low double-digit millions.
Business Details
Location: Biberist, Switzerland
Website: https://librec.ch/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/69184961
