In recent years, the demand for battery metals has increased due to the growing use of batteries in various sectors, such as electric mobility and electronic devices. Since the European Union does not fully exploit critical raw materials (CRMs) and specialty metals, as indicated in the EU Critical Raw Materials List Study (2020), there is a high dependency on imports of these metals from other producing countries such as Chile, Australia, or China.

In this context, the METALLICO project represents a new opportunity to improve this situation by increasing the production of these metals. It aims to demonstrate the recovery of critical and battery metals (Li, Co, Cu, Mn, Ni) using primary and secondary resources through a sustainable processing methodology. To achieve this, it will involve a strategic consortium across the entire value chain, including primary and secondary resources of the target metals in mining and industrial areas; experienced partners to test new battery material production processes; industrial end-users and SMEs from the battery, cement, paint, and ceramics sectors; and partners demonstrating social license to operate, sustainability, and the commercial potential of the solution.

Specifically, METALLICO includes four case studies in the EU that contain the target metals, including the secondary resources from the Tharsis mine. From these, the project’s key metals (Li, Co, Cu, Mn, Ni) will be recovered through five processes. The goal is to sustainably and innovatively scale the studied processes to achieve technical and economically viable recovery and production of these critical metals important to the EU.

The project has a duration of four years, ending on 31/12/2027. It is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under the call HORIZON-CL4-2022-RESILIENCE-01 and contract No. 101091682.