Following the 12th Battery Summit, Chinese delegation visits Japanese battery recycling plant
The day after the 12th Battery Summit (September 25, 2025, Tokyo International Forum), Mr. Feng from Long Kai Technology (LKT) in Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, China, along with his delegation, visited the battery recycling plant of Queens Metal Co., Ltd. in Mizunami City, Gifu Prefecture. The facility specializes in recycling secondary batteries other than lead, including lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).
From Roof Tiles to Batteries — Transforming Local Industry
Mizunami is traditionally known for Mino ware and other ceramics. However, after the Great Hanshin Earthquake, demand for roof tiles sharply declined, leaving local kiln technology underutilized. The city adapted by applying “firing” techniques to batteries, evolving into a modern recycling plant that reprocesses lithium-ion (LIB) and nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries using carbonization furnaces and rotary kilns.
Discharging in Saltwater
Upon entering the plant, we immediately notice large drums and containers. Non-lead secondary batteries are discharged in saltwater over a period of two weeks to two months. The water is reused, with the final annual wastewater volume being approximately 10 tons, treated offsite by specialized contractors. The facility handles around 60 tons of batteries monthly, collected from diverse sources including local scrap dealers, government agencies, small electronics (such as mobile batteries and portable fans), and automotive batteries.
Carbonization, Magnetic Separation, and Black Mass Recovery
After discharging, batteries undergo a 12-hour carbonization process in a large furnace, which separates metals. Magnetic separation recovers iron, copper, and aluminum. The extracted copper reaches a purity of over 65% and is reused as scrap containing precious metals.
Additionally, black mass (BM) is collected from dust collectors and sieves, enabling the plant to maintain an integrated workflow from battery collection to BM production.
Technology Exchange and Collaboration Opportunities
During the tour, Mr. Feng noted, “It’s a pity that copper remains in the iron scrap after magnetic separation. Our plant has further separation technology, which we’d like to showcase during the Xiamen tour in October.”
Subsequent discussions explored potential Japan-China collaborations, considering the surging demand for mass-produced black mass in China. Topics included leveraging Queens Metal’s technology and products for exports and technology transfer. For LKT, one of the few companies in China refining lithium carbonate and supplying lithium from LFP battery processing, large-scale black mass recovery is a key strategic asset.
Mr. Feng also expressed interest in opening the LKT plant to Japanese companies, highlighting the potential for investment and joint ventures.
P.S.: International Conference & Study Tour Announcement
From October 19–22, 2025, the 10th APAC Ni-Cr-Mn Stainless Steel & New Energy Conference 2025 will be held in Xiamen, China.
https://www.iru-miru.com/article/77347
中国廈門で開催「第10回 APAC Ni-Cr-Mn ステンレス鉄鋼 & 新エネルギー会議 2025」に参加 2025/08/29 20:36: 弊社IRuniverse株式会社は、Shanghai Metals Market（SMM）が主催する「第10回 APAC Ni-Cr-Mn ステンレス鋼 & 新エネルギー会議 2025（NCMSS2025）」に、メディアパートナーとして参加いたします。本国際カンファレンスは、ニッケル・クロム・マンガンを中心としたステンレス鋼および新エネルギー ... |
Highlights of this tour:
- October 18: Arrival in Xiamen
- October 19: Visit to Long Kai Technology (LFP battery recycling, lithium supply to XTC Energy) — also a presenter at the 12th Battery Summit.
- The company welcomes business exchanges with Japanese firms and can assist with local arrangements, including accommodation.
(IRuniverse R.S.)
