Syensqo and cylib Reach Breakthrough in High-Purity Lithium Recovery from EV Batteries

Photo Credit: Syensqo

According to a joint announcement, materials science company Syensqo and German battery recycling start-up cylib have reached a significant milestone in the development of circular battery material processing, successfully producing battery-grade lithium hydroxide from end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This breakthrough represents one of the few examples in the industry where lithium hydroxide — the preferred form for EV battery cathode production — has been recovered from black mass at such high purity.

As reported by the companies, the achievement enables lithium extraction and purification from shredded electrode material, or “black mass,” across different battery chemistries including NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) and LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate), using a single integrated processing line. This unified approach simplifies operations, enhances flexibility, and could significantly lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) for industrial recyclers.

“Syensqo’s technology perfectly complements cylib’s hydrometallurgical process, enhancing both the yield and purity of recovered lithium,” said Laurent Cohen, Head of Strategic Development and Alliances for Mining Solutions at Syensqo. “By combining our expertise in solvent extraction with cylib’s process, we’re establishing a scalable, high-purity lithium recovery route aligned with Europe’s circular economy and battery regulation goals.”

The process, co-developed with Syensqo’s engineering partner Tenova Advanced Technologies, uses the proprietary solvent CYANEX® 936P, known for its high selectivity for lithium. Hundreds of liters of lithium-rich effluent produced by cylib were treated using this advanced solvent extraction method, followed by purification, conversion, and crystallization. The final lithium hydroxide product reportedly meets, and in some cases exceeds, the strict purity thresholds demanded by leading cathode active material (CAM) manufacturers.

“This collaboration with Syensqo demonstrates our commitment to working continuously with partners to develop new processes and expand our technological leadership in battery recycling,” said Matthias Breidenbach, Vice President Commercial at cylib. “By combining our innovative hydrometallurgical expertise with Syensqo’s advanced solvent extraction technology, we are setting new standards for lithium recovery efficiency and purity.”

This development comes at a critical time as Europe enforces stricter regulatory targets under the EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542). According to the legislation, recyclers will be required to recover at least 50% of lithium from battery waste by the end of 2027, and 80% by 2031 — a target this pilot project may help the industry achieve more quickly.

Source: Syensqo