The University of Adelaide receives $5m in funding for battery recycling training centre

The University of Adelaide (UoA) is set to receive $5m in funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) for the establishment of a new ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Battery Recycling.

Southern Gold’s (ASX:SAU) battery technology company IonDrive Technologies (IDT) is the key partner organisation for the training centre.

Led by Professor Shizhang Qiao at The University of Adelaide, the centre aims to revolutionise Australia’s battery and resources industry by establishing advanced manufacturing capabilities for recycling mixed battery materials, promoting second life re-use and fostering a battery circular economy.

IonDrive Technologies will contribute $200k cash per year for five years which will be a catalyst for advancements in battery recycling technology and practices. Additionally, it will offer in-kind contributions of $100k per year, comprising support for research projects, mentoring, training and hosting higher degree research students.

IonDrive general manager JC Tan said the funding is a major milestone for the company.

“This funding is a major milestone for IonDrive as the ARC grants are highly competitive and peer-reviewed, highlighting their significance,” he said.

“IDT and the professors will together lead vital research for Australian battery recycling, particularly focusing on direct solvent extraction and its commercialisation.

“This grant will also drive more IP and patents, potentially in collaboration with other universities.” 

With the award of the funding, IonDrive is now firmly positioned to assess opportunities to accelerate the commercialisation of not only its DES battery recycling technology, but also to develop new battery recycling technologies in partnership with other universities.

These technologies can form a key part of the Australian government’s intention to establish downstream advanced manufacturing opportunities in the battery industry.

Southern Gold managing director Robert Smillie commented on the training centre.

“The establishment of the ARC Training Centre for Battery Recycling signifies a vital step forward in Australia’s pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable energy future,” he said.

“SAU congratulates The University of Adelaide on this award and establishment of the centre, further validation of their world leading research in battery recycling.”