Symbolic imageImage: Cylib/Jann HöferUnder the letter of intent, the partners will explore how graphite concentrate recovered using Cylib’s OLiC technology can be integrated into Vianode’s next-generation anode production. A commercial supply agreement is not yet in place; this is expected to be negotiated only after further evaluation and successful testing.Cylib will focus on recovering and producing high-quality graphite concentrate from recycled battery materials. The aim is to establish a robust supply chain that meets the defined quality and purity requirements for anode production. Vianode, meanwhile, will develop and test formulations that incorporate recycled graphite into anode materials and carry out pilot projects to evaluate performance at commercial scale.For the project, the partners will use Cylib’s water-based OLiC technology. According to the company, the process achieves a recycling efficiency of more than 90 per cent for lithium, graphite, nickel, cobalt and manganese. Cylib also states that the process generates an 80 per cent lower CO₂ footprint compared to primary raw material extraction.Vianode contributes its expertise in anode materials. According to the company, its synthetic anode graphite is produced with around 90 per cent lower CO₂ emissions than conventional materials currently used on the market while still meeting the performance requirements of leading electric vehicle and battery manufacturers.Through their collaboration, both companies aim to reduce Europe’s dependence on imported raw materials for battery production and lower the CO₂ footprint across the battery value chain. Cylib Co-CEO Lilian Schwich highlights the combination of Vianode’s anode expertise and Cylib’s recycled materials, stating that a circular economy could provide a competitive advantage for Europe.Vianode CEO Burkhard Straube also emphasises the importance of closed material loops. By integrating recycled graphite into anode materials, Vianode aims to strengthen the circular economy for battery graphite, reduce dependence on primary raw materials, and support the EU’s ambitions for a resilient, low-CO₂ battery ecosystem.For Cylib, the agreement represents another step towards establishing a circular economy for battery materials. Founded in 2022 as a spin-off from RWTH Aachen, the company is developing a holistic battery recycling process that recovers not only metals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt and manganese, but also graphite.Vianode, meanwhile, continues to expand its presence in Europe and North America. The company already operates the Via ONE facility in Norway and is currently building its first North American plant, Via TWO, in St. Thomas, Canada. In the long term, Vianode aims to supply battery materials for three million electric cars annually by 2030.cylib.de