Primobius GmbH represents a strategic joint venture between Neometals Ltd and SMS group GmbH, established to advance sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling solutions. The company addresses growing demands from electric vehicle manufacturers, energy storage providers, and consumer electronics industries. Through its innovative two-step recycling process, Primobius recovers high-purity materials such as cobalt, lithium, and nickel, supporting the circular economy in battery production. Based in Hilchenbach, Germany, the company combines Australian resource expertise with German engineering excellence to provide efficient, environmentally responsible recycling solutions.
Battery Technology
Primobius’s technology centers on a dual-phase recycling approach that maximizes material recovery while minimizing environmental impact. The first phase involves mechanical processing, where batteries are safely shredded without requiring prior discharge, thanks to integrated safety systems. This stage efficiently separates various components while maintaining material integrity.
The second phase utilizes hydrometallurgical processing to extract and purify valuable materials. This method stands out for its lower carbon emissions compared to traditional pyrometallurgical approaches. The process achieves high recovery rates for essential materials including cobalt, lithium, nickel, copper, and manganese, producing battery-grade materials suitable for immediate reuse in new battery production.
The company’s technology accommodates various battery chemistries and formats, offering flexibility to meet different industry needs. This adaptability proves essential as battery technologies continue to advance. The system’s modular design allows for scalable solutions, enabling Primobius to adjust capacity based on client requirements while maintaining consistent recovery rates and product quality.
Recent Projects
In early 2024, Primobius secured a significant purchase order from Mercedes-Benz for a hydrometallurgical refinery plant in Germany. This facility will complete an integrated lithium-ion battery recycling operation, processing 2,500 tonnes annually. The company also extended its partnership with Stelco until June 2025, maintaining the option to acquire up to 50% of Stelco’s battery recycling operations.
Additionally, Primobius signed an MOU with Neo Mobility Asia to explore establishing recycling operations in Thailand, marking important expansion into Southeast Asian markets. These developments demonstrate the company’s successful implementation of its technology across different regions and partnerships.
Investors
The company operates through the combined investment and expertise of its two founding partners. Neometals Ltd, listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX:NMT), brings substantial experience in resource technology and materials processing. SMS group GmbH, a private German engineering company, contributes extensive manufacturing and plant construction capabilities.
Primobius has received €360,000 in grant funding to support its operations. While specific details about additional investors are not publicly available, the company benefits from the financial stability and technical resources of its parent organizations.
Business Details
Location: Hilchenbach, Germany
Website: https://primobius.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/68872976
