Our Mission
At ProtectLiB, we are committed to revolutionizing sustainable battery recycling through our automated, decentralized system, ensuring safe, efficient processing while maximizing resource recovery.
The challenge
Rising lithium-ion battery (LIB) demand fuels environmental concerns
In recent years, the demand for LIB has surged, driven by its crucial role in powering consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. As this demand grows, so do the environmental and social challenges associated with producing and disposing of these batteries.
ProtectLiB is committed to addressing these issues through innovative and sustainable solutions, maximizing resource recovery, and significantly reducing environmental impact, and ensuring compliance with stringent regulations such as the European Green Deal.
The solution
Efficient material recovery with reduced emissions and transportation
At the core of our solution is a fully automated, decentralized shredding system designed to safely process fully charged LIB, eliminating risks associated with thermal runaway (TR). The system also streamlines the recycling process, reducing transportation needs and associated emissions.
Our advanced technology enables the extraction of valuable materials, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, using environmentally benign methods that prioritize sustainability and efficiency. By focusing on selective recovery, we aim to transform spent battery materials into high-grade resources, ultimately contributing to the circular economy and reducing reliance on newly extracted materials.
The results
Pilot study
The pilot project and the associated market validation are the next major step in ProtectLiB's corporate development. The planned site is located in the Greinbach business park and connected to the Green Testing Lab battery test center.
In addition to the facility's CE certification, the pilot project includes the planning of the site and the associated operating concept, as well as the creation of a logistics concept.
Services
Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) present challenges in their initial form, particularly the risk of uncontrolled thermal reactions known as thermal runaway (TR). At ProtectLiB, we provide an innovative and secure solution for processing end-of-life LIB that prioritizes environmental safety and recycling efficiency.
OEMs and battery manufacturers
ProtectLiB offers tailored end-to-end recycling solutions for OEMs and battery manufacturers. We take ownership of end-of-life LIB to ensure a reliable supply of recycled materials that can be directly integrated into their production processes.
Collection point and waste management
ProtectLiB offers efficient processing services for EOL-LIB from waste management companies. We process the batteries and return the recovered materials for reuse, allowing local waste management companies to benefit from a decentralized and efficient recycling solution.
Consulting for sustainability strategies
Our expert team advises companies on developing and optimizing their sustainability strategies. With our extensive experience in recycling LIB, we help clients evaluate their collection logistics, develop sustainable concepts, and adapt their processes to meet current regulatory requirements.
Press statements
A young company from Graz is designing containers for shredding e-car batteries. Without the risk of fire, valuable raw materials such as lithium, which has only been recycled abroad until now, can be obtained.
Die Presse
16.10.2024
The innovation is intended to enable the cost-effective and environmentally friendly recycling of valuable raw materials directly on-site. The first prototype has been completed and is located on the university campus, ready for use.
Electrive.net
27.08.2024
The manufacturing process is also unique. “We don't have to discharge the batteries beforehand and can, therefore, process them regardless of their charge level or whether they are damaged,” says Kopp, describing the uniqueness of her process.
Futurezone
30.08.2024
Meet the Team
Co-Founders
At ProtectLiB, we are proud to have a dedicated and skilled team committed to advancing the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. Our team is composed of experts in various fields, working collaboratively to ensure the success of our innovative recycling solutions.
DI Tobias Kopp, CEO & Founder
Tobias holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a master’s degree in Materials Science from TU Graz and the University of Graz, where he developed a strong understanding of the chemical processes involved in lithium-ion batteries. He further honed his skills in process design through his master’s thesis on efficient chemical separation methods for spent LIBs. He contributed as a Spin-off Fellow at the University of Graz. Currently, he is responsible for business administration, sales, and waste law.
Jürgen Abraham, CTO & Founder
Jürgen is a trained construction machinery technician with a Mathematics degree from TU Graz and the University of Graz, specializing in modeling and simulation. His experience includes working at Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH, where he focused on thermal simulations for LIBs in failure scenarios. Jürgen has presented his findings at conferences, showcasing his machine design and electronics expertise.
Chris Pichler, Technical Director & Founder
Chris's prototyping and mechanical fabrication background comes from his training as a machining technician at Konrad Forsttechnik GmbH. He has completed certifications in high-voltage technology, ensuring the safe handling of LIBs. Currently studying mechanical engineering and automation at HTL Wolfsberg, Chris is instrumental in developing and constructing the mechanical recycling processes at ProtectLiB and is responsible for planning, assembling, and testing the pilot plant.
Supporting Team
Tina Carola Spirk
Tina is primarily responsible for research and development activities concerning the chemical aspects of our recycling process. She is pursuing a PhD under the supervision of Ao.Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr.rer.nat. Walter Goessler aims to optimize the recycling process for lithium-ion batteries by combining her knowledge of environmental system science and materials science.
Samira Buttazoni
Samira strongly understands degradation processes within lithium-ion batteries, which she explored in her bachelor’s thesis. Her work involved determining and speciating fluoride-containing compounds that arise during the recycling process. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Technical Chemistry.
Supporters
Prof. Walter Goessler, University of Graz
Walter Goessler, part of the Institute of Chemistry at the University of Graz and Working Group Leader of Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment (ACHE), supports the team in method development, quality control, and assurance. His analytical chemistry expertise helps us proceed and scale a sustainable recycling process.
Dr. Max Hofer, CEO Green Testing Lab GmbH
Max Hofer holds a PhD in electrical engineering and has a background in semiconductors (at Infineon) and batteries (at Samsung SDI Battery Systems GmbH). He founded Green Testing Lab GmbH in 2020, focusing on developing battery test rigs and testing. Max supports the team concerning battery safety and knowledge concerning battery handling.
Our Location
Office and Headquarters
Schubertstraße 6a
8010 Graz
Austria