Iondrive Ltd (ASX:ION) has initiated a Benchmarking Study with the Production Engineering of E-Mobility Components (PEM) department at RWTH Aachen University, recognised for its expertise in automotive battery technology and recycling.
PEM is noted for its successful partnerships, including one with Henkel, which focus on next-generation battery technologies and improving battery safety and sustainability. This study will evaluate the economics of Iondrive’s battery recycling technology for a 10,000 tonnes per annum black mass operation in Europe compared to traditional hydrometallurgical processes.
Simultaneously, Iondrive has commenced an Engineering Study with Koch Modular Process Systems, a global leader in process engineering and modular construction. Koch Modular provides early-stage technology companies with vital data and insights to enhance commercialisation viability. Their advancements in metals recovery and purification offer the battery recycling industry efficient, cost-effective solutions. This study will review laboratory testing and each step of the process, including solvent recovery and the use of deep eutectic solvents (DES), to develop an economical, commercial-scale process.
Both studies are integral to Iondrive’s pre-feasibility study (PFS), scheduled for completion by October 2024. These efforts aim to optimise Iondrive’s environmentally sustainable battery recycling process for commercial scalability and economic viability.