The Third Frontier—LFP Black Mass and the Lithium-Only Challenge

While NMC batteries dominate high-value recycling equations today, the global battery landscape is shifting. LFP batteries are scaling faster than ever, especially for stationary storage and lower-cost EV segments. And with this shift comes a new challenge for recyclers.

Unlike NMC chemistry, where nickel, manganese, and cobalt drive value, LFP batteries contain:
• No nickel
• No cobalt
• Minimal manganese

In LFP black mass, lithium is the only significant recoverable value.
This makes LFP an entirely different economic and chemical problem.

Why LFP Requires Its Own Strategy

The separation technologies that work for NMC black mass—whether alkaline or acid—don’t necessarily offer the performance, efficiency, or economics needed for LFP recovery. The material value is lower, margins are thinner, and volumes will be enormous.

To succeed in LFP recovery, we need:
• A process optimised specifically for lithium recovery
• Chemistry tuned to low-value feedstock economics
• High-throughput, low-cost separation methods
• Technology that can reclaim lithium at commercial viability

This is why Recyclus is developing a third separation strategy dedicated solely to LFP. Just as we’ve given NMC a twin-track approach, we are now positioning ourselves to lead in the emerging field of high-volume LFP lithium reclamation.

The Future of Black Mass Is Multi-Path

As battery chemistries diversify, so must recycling strategies. The future will not be won by a single technology—but by the recyclers who can intelligently deploy the right process for the right chemistry at the right cost.

Recyclus Group is building precisely that capability.
We are not choosing one route—we are choosing the best route for every battery chemistry we encounter.

And in doing so, we aim to become a cornerstone of a truly circular battery ecosystem.