Biogenic CO2 utilization

for circular waste-to-batteries and hydrogen production

Biogenic CO2 utilization for circular waste-to-batteries and hydrogen production

The rapid expansion of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage has led to a growing demand for lithium-based batteries. At the same time, lithium extraction and battery production have significant environmental impacts and rely heavily on virgin raw materials

Start date: 2025-12-15

End date: 2028-12-15

BIOCO2PRO addresses this challenge by designing an integrated value chain where biogenic CO₂, derived from biomass and organic waste, is used to recover lithium from spent batteries and convert it into battery-grade lithium carbonate. Simultaneously, green hydrogen and volatile fatty acids (VFA) are produced as a clean energy carrier and biochemicals.

The project combines biological processes, advanced separation technologies, and innovative reactor systems to minimize waste generation and maximize resource recovery. Instead of treating CO₂ as a waste product, it is used as a key raw material. By recycling process streams and replacing conventional chemical reagents with bio-based alternatives, the system aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions, chemical consumption, and overall environmental impact.

University of Borås plays a key role in the development of the biological processes within the project. University of Borås together with RISE, contributes its expertise in anaerobic digestion, fermentation technologies, and resource recovery to develop a novel biological water–gas shift process that produces biogenic CO₂, green hydrogen, and VFAs from waste streams. The university is responsible for designing and optimizing low-moisture fermentation systems that improve efficiency while reducing water and energy use. University of Borås also evaluates how the produced organic acids can support metal recovery from battery waste, strengthening the circular integration between biological and chemical processes.

In addition to experimental development, the project includes system modelling, techno-economic assessment, and sustainability analysis to ensure that the proposed solutions are scalable, cost-effective, and environmentally sound. The project’s long-term ambition is to enable climate-neutral battery material production, strengthen European resource independence, and demonstrate how carbon dioxide can become a resource in a circular and fossil-free economy.

The project is coordinated by The Centre for Research and Technology-Hellas (CERTH)

The project is funded via the international partnership programmeClean Energy Transition Partnership (CETPartnership)