R&D Projects
Innovation is at the core of our activities. Our research and development efforts focus on advancing efficient, sustainable, and scalable solutions for lithium technologies.
Our R&D projects cover the full innovation cycle from laboratory-scale investigations to process optimization and industrial integration. Through close collaboration with academic partners, universities & industry experts, we develop and evaluate novel processes that improve resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen supply chain resilience in Europe.
OLiVer
Hard Rock Lithium Extraction and Purified Value Products for Energy Applications
OLiVer validates an improved pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical process for producing battery-grade lithium hydroxide (LHM) at pilot scale. Building on Rock Tech’s existing flowsheet, the project integrates advanced ore processing and direct lithium extraction (DLE) to create a more efficient refining pathway. This helps establish the domestic lithium supply capacity that Europe urgently needs.
Partners
- Advanced Minerals and Recycling Industrial Solutions – AdMiRIS
- National Technical University of Athens – NTUA
- Rock Tech Guben GmbH
- Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek NV (VITO)
Funding
- Eit RawMaterials
ELiSePro
Efficient Lithium Recovery via Selective Processes
This project aims to improve lithium recovery at Rock Tech’s Guben converter by minimizing losses throughout the production process. To capture residual lithium from process streams, several ion separation technologies are evaluated, including capacitive deionization and lithium-ion sieves. The most effective solution will be selected based on laboratory results and a structured techno-economic assessment for integration into the process. Ultimately, the project supports more efficient lithium use, reduces import dependency, and contributes to more sustainable battery material production.
Partners
- Chair of Chemical Process Engineering (CVT) at RWTH Aachen University
Funding
MaaSive Twin
Manufacturing as a service and supply chain predictive twin for critical raw materials
MaaSiveTwin aims to develop a real-time monitoring and prediction platform that leverages advanced digital tools and predictive analytics to identify and mitigate supply chain disruptions of Critical Raw Materials (CRM), whether caused by geopolitical events or policy changes. By enabling MaaS for CRM processing and production, the project aims to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce downtime, and support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient economy in line with EU regulations and green initiatives.
Partners
- Battronics GmbH
- ElevenEs d.o.o.
- Rock Tech Consulting GmbH
- Battronics Sp.z.o.o.
- Technical University Hamburg
- Technical University Crete
- RTD Talos
- Bern University of Applied Sciences
