The plant will serve as a technological foundation for future commercial operations, which are expected to begin in 2026. The focus is on a chemical recycling process designed to recover high-purity lithium and graphite from black mass – a processed form of battery material. These recovered materials can be reintegrated into battery cell production.
Founded in 2022, Tozero has developed its recycling process to a stage where it has already delivered the first batches of high-purity recycled lithium to customers in Europe. According to the company, the process enables recovery of more than 80 percent of the lithium contained in used batteries – exceeding the European Union’s targets set for 2031. Graphite can also be fully recovered and reintroduced into the local supply chain.
Rather than processing complete battery packs, Tozero specializes in recycling black mass. Mechanical disassembly is handled by external partners. This approach reduces safety risks, lowers logistics costs, and enhances the scalability and flexibility of the overall process.
The company plans to invest a mid-single-digit million-euro amount in the Gendorf facility. The project is co-financed by the European Union through the EIC Accelerator Program.
