Lithium-ion batteries
Lithium-ion batteries have become an integral part of the energy transition. Whether in electric cars or stationary energy storage, they play a key role. However, as their use becomes more widespread, challenges such as the handling of scarce raw materials and recycling are coming increasingly into focus.
“This is precisely where a new, forward-looking laboratory comes in, which is developing innovative recycling processes in close cooperation with its corporate partner Aurubis. The aim is to efficiently recover critical metals from used batteries. Not only are fundamental scientific questions being researched, but practical solutions are also being developed,” explains Priv.-Doz. Assoz.Prof. Dr. Eva Gerold, head of the new CD laboratory.
The close integration of research and industrial application enables the development of sustainable recycling processes that secure valuable resources and at the same time make a decisive contribution to the success of the energy transition. This project impressively demonstrates how science and industry can work together toward a greener future.
“The recycling of lithium-ion batteries addresses an issue that is of great importance to Europe in terms of energy transformation, climate change, and raw material security. Closing material cycles is essential for a functioning circular economy, and I am delighted that this important research project is being carried out at the Christian Doppler Laboratory in cooperation with the globally renowned company Aurubis AG,” said Vice Rector for Research and Sustainability Prof. Helmut Antrekowitsch.
BMWET promotes application-oriented research
CD laboratories play an important role for universities. On the one hand, researchers can devote themselves to a specific topic, and on the other hand, cooperation with corporate partners leads to direct applications in the economy.
Federal Minister Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer explains the relevance of research for the business location: “Not waste, but raw materials: high-tech recycling is a key to Europe’s industrial independence. Recovering critical metals such as lithium, nickel, or cobalt in the country secures added value, technological expertise, and jobs in Austria. Especially in times of global tensions, this is not a niche topic, but pure location policy. This CD laboratory shows how research and industry are working hand in hand to reduce dependencies and strengthen Europe’s competitiveness.”
Collaboration with industry
The CD Laboratory’s corporate partner is Aurubis AG, a global leader in multi-metal recycling. “Aurubis has developed a very good technology with recovery rates for battery metals of around 95%, which is a top value in an industry comparison. But the technology and composition of lithium-ion batteries are constantly and dynamically changing—a major challenge for recycling. We are therefore focusing on applied research to better understand these dynamics and ultimately reduce risks,” explains Dr. Adalbert Lossin, Head of Research & Development at Aurubis AG.
CD Laboratories
Christian Doppler Laboratories conduct high-level application-oriented basic research, with outstanding scientists collaborating with innovative companies. The Christian Doppler Research Association is internationally recognized as a best practice example for promoting this collaboration.
Christian Doppler Laboratories are jointly financed by the public sector and the participating companies. The most important public funding body is the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Tourism (BMWET).
[Source: Press Release Montanuniversität Leoben, November 12, 2025]