Comau developing automated battery disassembly processes for end-of-life batteries as part of EU Reinforce sustainability project

As part of its participation in the European Union’s Reinforce project Comau is developing a dismantling service for handling electric vehicle batteries and stationary packs.

The Reinforce project has been set up by the EU to address the growing need for effective end-of-life management of batteries used in electric vehicles and stationary storage. The organisers indicate that used, defective and unstable batteries pose new challenges along the supply chain and require new industrial processes, automated equipment and tracking systems, as well as new strategies to prepare them for a second or third life, or for the recycling of their components and materials.

Comau, which provides industrial automation and robotics technology, is researching how to develop automated disassembly processes for end-of-life (EoL) battery packs with different shapes and types, focusing on pack to module, module to cell, and cell to electrode disassembly. It is also evaluating and developing a simulation of fully automated large-scale disassembly processing, as well as reassembling the battery packs for second life applications.

Comau said the service will optimise collection and logistics, improve diagnostics and recovery techniques, and implement a safe, efficient and traceable dismantling processes to repurpose the battery materials.

“This project underscores the increasing need to develop a circular electrification path and represents a significant step forward in sustainable battery management,” said Andrew Lloyd, chief of engineering at Comau. Our advanced robotic disassembly solution will not only enhance the efficiency and safety of the disassembly process but also support the circular economy by maximising the recovery and reuse of materials from end-of-life batteries.” 

Comau is managing one of the eight work plan groups involved in the Reinforce project and last week hosted the Reinforce General Assembly, during which member organisations (see box) gathered to review and discuss the status of various project deliverables.

The Reinforce project is funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.

In addition to the Reinforce project, Comau is involved with Upcell – European Battery Manufacturing Alliance, an association that promotes the creation of an integrated European value chain for the development and production of electric batteries.