Once collected from our drop-off points, they are taken to our specialist battery recycling depot. Here they are sorted according to what type of battery they are and their chemistry. This is an important step, as different battery types require different recycling methods.

Once the batteries have been sorted, they are then shredded into smaller pieces. By shredding them, all the different metal components of the batteries – such as nickel, zinc, and lead – are easier to identify and separate later on.

The shredded batteries are then passed through several sieves and ‘induced magnetic separators’, which work to identify and separate the different types of metals. Anything leftover such as carbon, plastic, or paper, is removed for further recycling.

Each of the metals collected with then go through a ‘smelting’ process, and then any impurities removed to result in pure, high-quality metals that can now be used to make new products.

If any hazardous materials, such as acid or toxic substances, are left over after the purification process, these are treated and managed by certified waste management partners.