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Highlights
- Iondrive Ltd achieves high recovery rates in lithium-ion battery recycling.
- Study shows significant improvements in recovering critical minerals from black mass.
- Prefeasibility study and pilot plant development are set for completion soon.
Iondrive Ltd (ASX:ION) has announced a significant achievement in its lithium-ion battery recycling process, reporting strong recovery rates of critical minerals from black mass, a key material in battery recycling. According to a new study, ASX mining stock Iondrive successfully recovered nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium at rates of 100%, 98.6%, 98.4%, and 89.1%, respectively. These results mark a crucial step forward in Iondrive's efforts to refine its recycling technology and bring it closer to commercial application.
This study builds on previous research from July, where Iondrive showcased the scalability of its recycling process using pure precursor Cathode Active Material (pCAM). However, the new study takes things further by focusing on black mass—a mix of spent batteries from various sources, including different types of lithium-ion batteries. The use of black mass introduces impurities, making the recycling process more challenging, but Iondrive’s technology has proven capable of handling this material effectively.
The company’s three-stage pre-treatment process for black mass has been key to these improved recovery rates. By effectively removing impurities, the process allows Iondrive to extract higher amounts of critical minerals compared to earlier tests. This success is seen as a significant advancement in recycling technology, as it demonstrates the capability to recover valuable materials even from lower-quality inputs.
Iondrive’s CEO, Ebbe Dommisse, highlighted the importance of these results. He noted that achieving high recovery rates from mixed black mass represents a substantial leap forward compared to earlier trials, which used more pristine materials. Dommisse expressed confidence that working with more consistent and higher-grade material through future partnerships will further enhance the efficiency of Iondrive’s recycling process.
The company is on track to complete a prefeasibility study on its battery recycling technology by the end of October. This study will lay the groundwork for the development of a pilot plant, where Iondrive plans to further test and refine its process on a larger scale. In addition, the company is exploring opportunities for collaboration and non-dilutive funding to support its growth in both Europe and Australia.
With the battery recycling industry gaining momentum globally, Iondrive Ltd’s progress comes at a crucial time. Its ability to recover high levels of critical minerals from black mass positions the company as a leader in this emerging field, with promising potential for future expansion and partnerships.
