- The facility processes up to 30,000 tonnes of lithium-ion battery material annually.
- The second processing line will start later in 2023.
- The facility created approximately 50 new jobs.
- The Portovesme Hub in Italy will process 50,000-70,000 tonnes of black mass per year.
Facility Overview
Li-Cycle has commenced operations at its first European Spoke recycling facility in Magdeburg, Germany. The facility's first processing line is operational, with a second line expected to start later in 2023. Each line can process up to 10,000 tonnes of lithium-ion battery material annually, with an additional 10,000 tonnes of ancillary capacity planned, totaling 30,000 tonnes per year.
Technology and Capacity
The Germany Spoke uses Li-Cycle’s patented 'Generation 3' Spoke technology to process all forms of lithium-ion battery waste, including full EV battery packs, without discharging, dismantling, or thermal processing. This facility is the largest in Li-Cycle’s portfolio and one of the largest in Europe.
Strategic Importance
Located near key manufacturing centers, the facility leverages existing infrastructure, renewable energy, and transportation outlets. It supports the largest market for battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life lithium-ion batteries in Europe, creating approximately 50 new jobs.
Global Expansion
Li-Cycle operates five Spokes in North America and Europe, with a total processing capacity of up to 81,000 tonnes per year. Additional Spokes are planned in France and Norway, aiming for a global capacity of over 100,000 tonnes annually. The Spokes produce "black mass," containing valuable materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt.
Future Developments
Li-Cycle plans to process black mass at its future Hub facilities. The first Hub in Rochester, New York, will start commissioning later this year, processing up to 35,000 tonnes annually. A second Hub in Europe, a joint venture with Glencore, is planned in Portovesme, Italy, with a capacity of 50,000-70,000 tonnes per year.
