BASF commenced commercial operations at its cutting-edge Black Mass battery recycling facility in Schwarzheide, Germany — a major leap forward in the company’s commitment to sustainable battery materials. With a capacity to process up to 15,000 tons of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries and production scrap annually, the plant stands among the largest of its kind in Europe. This capacity translates to roughly 40,000 electric vehicle (EV) batteries recycled each year.
Paving the Way for Europe’s Circular Battery Economy
The facility’s launch is a strategic milestone for both BASF and the European battery industry. As Europe intensifies its focus on battery sustainability and self-sufficiency, recycling plays a crucial role in reducing dependency on imported raw materials. Black mass production — a key step in the recycling process — involves the mechanical treatment of used batteries to recover a metal-rich mixture.
The black mass contains essential battery metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese. These metals are critical for manufacturing cathode active materials (CAM). BASF chemically recovers and reuses these metals. This supports a circular value chain and reduces the environmental impact of sourcing primary raw materials.
Strategic Commitment to Battery Recycling and Materials Innovation
Dr. Daniel Schönfelder, President of BASF’s Battery Materials division, emphasized, “Our new Black Mass plant is another proof of our commitment to the battery materials and recycling industry — one of the most important growth areas in the chemical sector,” he said. “This facility will become a cornerstone of our service offering, supporting customers in strengthening raw material self-sufficiency and meeting EU Battery Regulation requirements.” With this move, BASF reinforces its position as a leading battery recycling partner across the European value chain.
A Full-Spectrum Recycling Ecosystem in Schwarzheide
The new facility is part of BASF’s comprehensive battery recycling ecosystem in Europe. In addition to producing Black Mass, the company’s operations in Schwarzheide also include:
*Europe’s first fully automated CAM production plant
*A prototype metal refinery for further recovery and refining of battery metals
One of Europe’s largest Black Mass storage facilities
BASF also works with a robust partner network to manage upstream activities such as collecting, discharging, and dismantling end-of-life batteries and production scrap. This integrated approach positions BASF as a key enabler of circularity in battery production.
Driving Sustainable Growth in the EV Supply Chain
The demand for EVs and battery materials continues to surge. BASF’s investment in battery recycling supports both environmental sustainability and industrial competitiveness. The company press release states that the Schwarzheide black mass plant is more than a recycling hub. It is a critical asset in Europe’s transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.
