Technology Minerals PLC (LSE:TM1) hailed the first order for associate Recyclus's new LiBox container for the safe storage and transportation of lithium-ion batteries from car dealership chain Waylands.
Made from steel and lined with layers of lithium battery fire protection pillows, LiBoxes have UN certification and are ADR compliant, the company said, which is the highest global standard for transporting hazardous goods.
"There is a growing issue across the UK where these batteries are being stored on commercial properties unsafely and without an onward processing plan. LiBox is a simple solution that de-risks a business and, combined with our recycling facility, enables the materials to be moved on for sustainable processing and reuse," explained Recyclus co-founder Robin Brundle.
Under the order, Recyclus has delivered the first LiBoxes to Waylands, which is using them to store waste Li-ion batteries across its Volvo outlets in Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Waylands director Richard Spencer said: "Within our dealerships, we already carry out many EV repairs on a regular basis and have been delighted to obtain suitable safe storage for these products which, as we know carry potential stability risks when damaged or under repair. Recyclus offers a one stop shop that allows us to safely store and recycle these batteries, reducing the risk of any incident and containing what could be a very damaging event should a cell fail."
Technology Minerals, which has agreed terms to increase its ownership of battery recycling business Recyclus up to 100% from the current 48%, said the LiBox is also available for use in other sectors where Li-ion batteries are used, such as portable electronic devices.
Recyclus commissioned its first Li-ion battery recycling facility in Wolverhampton last month and reported later in the month to have started ramping-up its first lead-acid battery recycling plant, in Tipton.