Desco Electronic Recyclers is implementing sophisticated, effective recycling processes, ensuring valuable materials are recovered safely and efficiently.
The process involves grinding the batteries to separate materials such as steel, copper, and plastic, resulting in a black mass that contains lithium, cobalt, nickel and other valuable elements. While these procedures recover essential resources, the black mass is not exposed or recovered locally. Additionally, strict safety protocols are followed to mitigate environmental hazards.
Although critical, an alarming 90% of lithium-ion batteries are not recycled globally, leading to millions of tons of waste each year. In South Africa, an estimated 18 000 tons of lithium-ion batteries reach end of life annually and most are sent to landfills or incinerated. This not only causes significant environmental harm but also results in the loss of valuable materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel that could otherwise be recovered and reused.
Recycling these batteries is costly and requires a significant volume to be viable. South Africa lacks the necessary volume for an in-house refinery.
Desco is addressing this significant issue by employing advanced recycling technologies to process tons of lithium-ion batteries each year. Through rigorous mechanical processing, the company recovers valuable materials including steel, copper and plastic.
The remaining black mass, containing critical elements like lithium and cobalt, is sent to specialised facilities overseas for further extraction. This approach helps mitigate environmental impacts and supports a sustainable circular economy by reducing the need for new raw material extraction.
Giulio Airaga, director of Desco, says the company is committed to processing lithium-ion batteries and sending the resulting materials overseas for extraction and reuse. “We prioritise safety as mishandling these batteries can be hazardous. Therefore, we employ special vehicles and handling teams to ensure safe logistics before processing.”
Desco's operations comply with Extended Producer Responsibility regulations, ensuring all recycling activities are traceable and environmentally responsible. This compliance underscores the company's commitment to transparency and sustainability, providing clients with detailed reports on the recycling process and its environmental impact.
Airaga says, regardless of the availability of effective recycling solutions, misconceptions persist within the industry. "It's frustrating to see the market suggesting there are no viable solutions for lithium-ion battery recycling when, in fact, comprehensive processes exist and are being utilised. Our industry needs better communication and awareness to bridge this gap."
Desco is dedicated to promoting a zero-waste cyclical market where materials are continuously reused, reducing reliance on new mining activities. This vision aligns with global sustainability goals and contributes to a more sustainable future for all.
"We urge businesses and individuals to adopt responsible recycling practices. Proper disposal of Li-Ion batteries and electronic waste is crucial for protecting the environment”.
