Harnessing pioneering recycling technology, Re-Astra excel in restoring critical Li-ion raw materials, revitalizing them as they seamlessly reintegrate into the battery ecosystem.
In a recent talk with Aishwarya, P.A.Guru Punghavan, CEO, Re-Astra emphasized the need to reduce reliance on the Chinese market for essential raw materials to strengthen India’s position in the global EV landscape.
Tell us about Re-Astra key portfolio and what separates your products from other competitors?
RE-ASTRA, the brand associated with EWC RECYCLING PVT LTD. Our primary focus at RE-ASTRA is on the innovative and environmentally responsible recycling of end-of-life batteries, culminating in the extraction of rare earth minerals. This process, in turn, facilitates the creation of new battery cells, contributing to the development of sustainable energy solutions.
At the core of our operations is a state-of-the-art recycling process meticulously designed to recover valuable rare earth minerals from spent batteries. This not only addresses the critical issue of electronic waste but also harnesses the latent potential in these discarded batteries. Rare earth minerals, pivotal components in modern battery technology, are vital for the production of high-performance cells used in various applications, including electric vehicles, portable electronics, and renewable energy storage.
We have successfully extracted materials that find application in critical components such as cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes. These materials, sourced through our advanced recycling process, hold immense significance in the development of energy storage solutions. Specifically, they contribute to the formulation of cathode and anode structures, as well as play a crucial role in the creation of high-performance electrolytes.
With the current explosion of EVs in Indian market, how are your services impacting sustainability in mobility segment?
The extraction of these materials is instrumental in the development of advanced battery systems, positioning us at the forefront of supporting the growth of EV manufacturing in India. The availability of these critical materials at a competitive price enhances the feasibility of establishing new cell manufacturing facilities within the country. This not only ensures a sustainable supply chain for domestic electric vehicle production but also contributes to the broader goal of establishing India as a self-reliant hub for EV technology.
Moreover, reducing reliance on the Chinese market for these essential materials strengthens India’s position in the global EV landscape. By providing access to high-quality materials at a more affordable price, we empower Indian cell manufacturers to compete on a global scale, fostering innovation and technological advancement in the electric mobility sector.
Do you customize your products according to client needs?
At RE-ASTRA, we prioritize meeting the unique needs and specifications of our clients. We understand that different clients may have distinct requirements, whether in terms of the type of materials needed, specific extraction processes, or quantities required. Therefore, customization is a cornerstone of our service offerings.
Our team of experts is dedicated to working closely with clients to understand their precise requirements and tailor our processes accordingly. Our goal is not only to provide high-quality rare earth materials but also to ensure that our clients receive a solution that aligns seamlessly with their operational and technical requirements.
Mention the challenges Battery Recycling firms are facing in India’s EV sector and is there any specific standards while testing a battery that makes it suitable for recycling?
EV batteries come in various chemistries, such as lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride, and others. Each chemistry poses unique challenges in terms of recycling processes and requires specific technologies for efficient extraction of valuable materials.
With the rapid growth of the EV market, battery recycling firms need to scale up operations to handle the increasing volume of end-of-life batteries. Achieving this at a pace that matches the market demand while maintaining efficient recycling processes is a significant challenge.
Public Awareness and Collection Infrastructure: Building awareness among consumers about the importance of recycling and establishing efficient collection infrastructure for end-of-life batteries remain challenges. Creating a streamlined system for the collection and transportation of used batteries is essential for the success of recycling initiatives.
Regarding standards for testing batteries suitable for recycling, several factors come into play:
- Understanding the chemical composition of batteries is critical. The recycling process effectiveness depends on knowing the types and proportions of materials present.
- The state of charge of a battery can impact its suitability for recycling. Batteries with extremely low or high charge levels may require specific handling procedures.
- Damaged or degraded batteries may pose safety risks during recycling. Evaluating the physical condition of batteries is essential for safe and efficient recycling processes.
- The age of the battery and its usage history influence the degradation of materials. Older batteries or those subjected to extreme conditions may require specialized recycling approaches.
- Knowing the energy capacity of a battery helps in estimating the potential value of extracted materials and in planning recycling processes accordingly.
Any upcoming projects or expansion targets the company is planning for?
Yes, we are excited to share that RE-ASTRA has embarked on a pioneering initiative by establishing a pilot line dedicated to the production of cells that are entirely made in India. This strategic move includes not only the assembly of cells but, significantly, the production of raw materials in-house. This comprehensive approach underscores our commitment to fostering self-sufficiency within the Indian electric vehicle (EV) sector.
The uniqueness of this pilot line lies in its ability to produce high-quality cells where key components such as the electrolyte, anode, and cathode materials are all manufactured within our facilities at RE-ASTRA. This integrated production model ensures meticulous control over the quality of each component, resulting in cells that meet the highest standards of performance, reliability, and sustainability.