Metastable Materials recovers critical metals from used batteries

Bengaluru-based Metastable Materials has developed a refining process to recover lithium, nickel, cobalt, copper, and aluminium from spent lithium-ion batteries. The startup’s method is described as chemical-free, avoiding the acids and solvents used in some traditional recycling techniques.

The process enters a market where battery waste is growing, and demand for critical metals is increasing alongside the expansion of electric vehicles and energy storage. Recycling rates for lithium-ion batteries have historically been low in many regions, and alternative methods could offer sustainability benefits—though questions remain about scalability and cost.

The startup operates in a sector drawing attention from investors and policymakers. Earlier coverage of Hertha Metals, which secured significant funding including government equity, underscores the strategic interest in battery recycling. While Hertha is advancing commercial-scale infrastructure, Metastable’s approach appears to be at an earlier stage.

What’s next will depend on whether the startup can demonstrate viability. If successful, it could contribute to positioning India as a player in a segment where innovation has been more active elsewhere.

Sources: yourstory.com