Syensqo and cylib have reported a pilot-scale milestone in circular battery materials processing by producing high-purity lithium hydroxide from spent electric vehicle batteries. The partners recovered battery-grade lithium from shredded electrodes, or black mass, sourced from multiple chemistries including NMC and LFP on a single operating line. According to the companies, this approach simplifies the recycling flow, increases versatility across feedstocks and may reduce capital expenditures. Few recyclers currently deliver lithium at battery-grade, particularly lithium hydroxide, which is the preferred lithium form for new EV batteries.
"Syensqo’s technology perfectly complements cylib’s hydrometallurgical process, enhancing both the yield and purity of recovered lithium," said Laurent Cohen, in charge of Strategic Development and Alliances for Mining Solutions at Syensqo. "By combining our expertise in solvent extraction with cylib’s process, we’re establishing a scalable, high-purity lithium recovery route aligned with Europe’s circular economy and battery regulation goals."
Integrated extraction at pilot scale
As part of the project, hundreds of liters of cylib’s lithium-rich effluent were processed by Syensqo using an innovative extraction technology co-developed with its engineering partner, Tenova Advanced Technologies. The process employs Cyanex 936P, Syensqo’s proprietary solvent extractant noted for its lithium selectivity. Following extraction, purification, conversion and crystallization, the resulting product meets, and in some respects exceeds, the strict purity specifications required by leading cathode active material manufacturers.
"This collaboration with Syensqo demonstrates our commitment to working continuously with partners to develop new processes and expand our technological leadership in battery recycling," said Matthias Breidenbach, Vice President Commercial at cylib. "By combining our innovative hydrometallurgical expertise with Syensqo's advanced solvent extraction technology, we are setting new standards for lithium recovery efficiency and purity."
Alignment with EU battery regulation
This achievement also advances the objectives set by the European Union for lithium recovery in battery recycling. According to the Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, adopted two years ago, recyclers must recover at least 50% of the lithium content in battery waste by the end of 2027, and no less than 80% by the end of 2031.
Cyanex is a registered trademark of Syensqo.
Syensqo and cylib reach a milestone in lithium recovery from spent electric vehicle batteries.
