Introducing The Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO)

Introducing ReUse consortium member - The Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO).

The Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO) de-risks innovation for businesses and strengthen the economic and societal fabric of Flanders, with interdisciplinary research and large-scale pilot installations. 

VITO employs 1300 staff, of which 135 were PhDs and postdocs, of 61 nationalities. In 2023, VITO’s research produced 277 scientific publications, 35 patents, created 2 spin-offs and booked a revenue of 268 M€. 

Amongst others, VITO is internationally recognized for its expertise on innovative sensor-based characterization technologies (Characterize-to-Sort) as well as on the development of innovative routes to valorize complex waste streams, combined with a strong knowledge and hands-on expertise on waste recycling technologies. 

In the ReUse project, VITO will develop the automated sorting of EoL LFP batteries from a mixed stream of waste Li-ion batteries. Therefore, VITO will apply advanced sensor-based technology and develop a classification model to recognise and subsequently sort LFP batteries.

Furthermore, VITO will research and develop novel microwave-assisted purification and regeneration routes for spent LFP active cathode materials which are recovered from waste LFP batteries. This latter process will enable direct recycling of the cathode active material towards its use in new batteries.