Watercycle Technologies and cylib Partner for Graphite and Lithium Recovery Expansion

Watercycle Technologies announced on May 19 that it had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with cylib GmbH to establish a strategic partnership focused on graphite and lithium recovery from battery recycling operations. The collaboration is designed to combine the technical strengths of both companies and support the expansion of a circular battery materials ecosystem across Europe. The agreement highlights increasing industry efforts to improve battery material recovery efficiency and strengthen localized supply chains for critical raw materials.

Strategic Focus of the Partnership

Under the terms of the MoU, Watercycle Technologies will assess the procurement of graphite material from cylib GmbH’s demonstration recycling facility located in Germany. Supply activities are expected to begin in 2026, with volumes projected to increase following the launch of cylib’s first commercial-scale recycling plant. The companies also plan to evaluate future expansion opportunities linked to additional production capacity and material recovery demand across the regional battery value chain.

Technology Integration and Material Recovery Goals

The partnership will focus on integrating recycling and recovery technologies to improve the extraction and reuse of graphite and lithium from end-of-life battery materials. Both companies intend to explore methods that can increase material recovery efficiency while supporting sustainable sourcing strategies for battery manufacturing. As battery demand continues to grow in Europe, industry participants are increasingly prioritizing recycling partnerships to secure critical materials and reduce dependency on imported resources.

Expected Partnership Development Timeline

The collaboration reflects a broader trend within the battery recycling sector, where companies are pursuing strategic alliances to improve raw material circularity and scale domestic recycling capabilities. By combining recovery technologies and supply chain planning, the agreement between Watercycle Technologies and cylib GmbH aims to contribute to a more resilient and sustainable European battery ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the partnership between Watercycle Technologies and cylib GmbH?
The partnership is focused on improving graphite and lithium recovery from battery recycling operations in Europe. Through the Memorandum of Understanding, both companies will evaluate ways to integrate their technologies and strengthen the circular battery supply chain. Watercycle Technologies is also expected to assess graphite procurement from cylib GmbH’s Aachen demonstration facility starting in 2026. The collaboration is intended to support sustainable battery material sourcing and increase recovery efficiency as battery recycling demand continues to expand across the European market.

When will graphite supply activities begin under the agreement?
Graphite supply evaluation activities are expected to begin in 2026 from cylib GmbH’s Aachen demonstration facility in Germany. Supply volumes are anticipated to grow further after the company starts operations at its first commercial recycling plant. Both organizations are also exploring additional long-term expansion opportunities linked to future production growth and material recovery capabilities. The agreement represents a strategic step toward supporting localized battery material recycling and improving the availability of critical resources for the European battery industry.