cylib GmbH

"Next generation battery recycling" that transforms end-of-life batteries and production scraps into critical raw materials (lithium, graphite, cobalt, manganese, nickel) for a circular European value chain.

Where it wins

• Holistic recovery of all elements in lithium-ion batteries, including water-based lithium and graphite recovery that drastically minimises chemical use [1].
• 90% recycling efficiency and an 80% reduced carbon footprint compared to raw material extraction, verified by an external lifecycle assessment (2023) [1].
• End-to-end integration from discharging to refined materials, ensuring direct integration into the battery production value chain [1].
• Powered by 100% renewable electricity throughout the production process [1].

Credibility: The 80% carbon footprint reduction is verified by an external lifecycle assessment (2023) [1]. The company's technology is rooted in research from RWTH Aachen University [1].

• Proprietary water-based recycling process that recovers all elements in lithium-ion batteries [1].
• End-to-end integration from battery discharging to refined material production [1].
• Scaling operations through industrial facilities, including a new LFP battery recycling facility in Dormagen [1].
• Leveraging research from RWTH Aachen University to maintain technological leadership [1].

Credibility: The company's technology is described as a "holistic, research-driven technology" born at RWTH Aachen University [1]. It is building an industrial-scale facility in Dormagen with €63.4M in grant funding [1].

• HPB: Develops solid-state batteries and cooperates with cylib for recycling [2].
• Traditional battery recyclers: Often lack holistic recovery of all elements [1].
• Raw material extractors: Face higher environmental impact and supply chain risks [1].

Credibility: The company's proprietary process recovers all elements in lithium-ion batteries [1]. HPB cooperates with cylib for battery recycling [2].

• Dependence on critical raw material imports for battery production [1].
• Environmental impact of raw material extraction [1].
• Lack of efficient recycling solutions for all battery elements [1].
• Need for sustainable materials in the energy transition [1].

Credibility: The company aims to "strengthen resilient European value chains" [1]. Its process offers an "80% reduced carbon footprint" compared to raw material extraction [1].

cylib's holistic recovery and water-based process position it as a key enabler of European battery independence. The qualification of its recycled lithium carbonate by a major international partner validates its technology and opens the door to large-scale supply agreements. The main risk is scaling the industrial facilities and securing long-term offtake agreements. The opportunity lies in expanding into sodium-ion battery recycling and securing more partnerships with battery manufacturers. The next signal to watch is the successful commissioning of the Dormagen facility and the volume of recycled materials supplied to partners.

Expand marketing efforts to highlight the 80% carbon footprint reduction and 90% recycling efficiency to attract more environmentally conscious customers. Develop more case studies and testimonials from qualified partners to build trust and credibility. Explore additional revenue streams, such as licensing the proprietary technology to other recyclers. Strengthen the supply chain for end-of-life batteries by partnering with more waste management companies.