Summary
- Mercedes-Benz opened an EV battery recycling plant in Germany
- The plant has an annual capacity of 2,500 metric tons with a recovery rate of more than 96%
- The integrated process recovers raw materials from battery modules
- Primobius is the technology partner for the facility
- The plant is part of a scientific research project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action
Article
Mercedes-Benz has opened its own EV battery recycling plant in Kuppenheim, Germany, with an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process to recover raw materials. The plant has an annual capacity of 2,500 metric tons and an expected recovery rate of over 96%. It carries out all steps, from shredding battery modules to processing active battery materials. The multi-stage mechanical process sorts and separates plastics, copper, aluminum, and iron. The downstream hydrometallurgical process extracts cobalt, nickel, and lithium from the black mass for use in new battery cells.
The technology partner for the facility is Primobius, a joint venture between SMS group and Neometals. The plant is receiving funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action as part of a research project with three German universities. This project aims to study the entire process chain for recycling, including logistics and reintegration concepts. Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz responsible for Production, Quality, and Supply Chain Management, stated that the technology allows for the recovery of valuable raw materials from the battery with the highest possible degree of purity, turning today’s batteries into sustainable mines for raw materials.
The new battery recycling plant strengthens the role of the Mercedes-Benz production network with vehicle and drivetrain plants in Europe. This move aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. The plant not only helps to reduce the environmental impact of EV production and disposal but also contributes to a circular economy by reusing valuable materials from old batteries. By investing in advanced recycling technologies, Mercedes-Benz aims to lead the way in sustainable practices within the automotive industry.
The innovative approach taken by Mercedes-Benz in establishing its recycling plant highlights the company’s dedication to environmental conservation and resource efficiency. By partnering with Primobius and receiving support from the German government, Mercedes-Benz is able to implement cutting-edge recycling technologies that enhance the sustainability of its operations. The plant’s advanced processes ensure the recovery of valuable resources from spent batteries, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing waste. This proactive approach sets a positive example for other automakers and industries seeking to adopt more sustainable practices.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, responsible battery recycling becomes increasingly crucial to minimize environmental impact and conserve resources. Mercedes-Benz’s investment in a state-of-the-art recycling plant demonstrates its commitment to addressing these challenges and promoting a more sustainable future for the automotive sector. By closing the loop on battery materials and reducing reliance on mining, the company is moving towards a circular economy model that prioritizes resource efficiency and environmental stewardship. Through collaboration with technology partners and research institutions, Mercedes-Benz is driving innovation in battery recycling and setting new standards for sustainability in the industry.
Overall, Mercedes-Benz’s EV battery recycling plant in Kuppenheim represents a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable and circular battery supply chain. By leveraging advanced technologies and strategic partnerships, the company is able to recover valuable raw materials from spent batteries with high efficiency and purity. This approach not only reduces environmental impact and waste but also contributes to the development of a closed-loop system for battery materials. As Mercedes-Benz continues to prioritize sustainability in its operations, the recycling plant stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and resource conservation in the production of electric vehicles.
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