Honda Motor Co. and Princeton NuEnergy Inc. announced a memorandum of understanding to advance collaboration on next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling technologies. The agreement aims to strengthen circular battery material supply chains and support U.S. energy independence through innovative recycling and rejuvenation pathways.
Highlights
- Honda and PNE have conducted joint technical validation of plasma-based direct recycling since 2022
- PNE has produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material with performance comparable to virgin material
- The MOU establishes a framework for collaborative validation projects and potential commercial-scale applications
- Partnership aligns Honda’s electrification strategy with PNE’s closed-loop battery materials platform
Technical Validation Yields Promising Results
The two companies have worked together since 2022 to validate PNE’s plasma-based Direct Recycling and Upcycling technologies. These processes target both lithium-ion battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life materials.
Through this collaboration, PNE produced rejuvenated NMC cathode active material demonstrating performance characteristics comparable to virgin material. The results support Honda’s long-term goals for resource circularity within its electrification program.
Strategic Framework for Future Development
The MOU outlines a framework for strategic partnership centered on collaborative validation projects. It also establishes groundwork for potential future commercial-scale applications of the recycling technologies.
“Our work with Honda shows strong technical alignment and a clear pathway for advancing circular battery materials,” said Dr. Chao Yan, Co-Founder and CEO of Princeton NuEnergy. “This MOU reflects a shared commitment to accelerating the next phase of sustainable, high-performance material production.”
Honda stated it values the progress achieved through the collaboration and recognizes the importance of advanced recycling technologies in building a more sustainable materials ecosystem.
PNE Expands U.S. Manufacturing Presence
The announcement follows PNE’s recent recognition for U.S. manufacturing expansion, including the 2025 Smart Move SC New Plant Award. The recognition highlights the company’s progress in strengthening domestic production of advanced battery materials.
PNE describes itself as the most cost-effective, energy- and capital-efficient U.S. producer of battery-grade cathode active material for lithium-ion batteries. The company’s platform spans Direct Recycling, Advanced Black Mass production, and Upcycled CAM technologies.
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