Honda Motor Co. has signed a memorandum of understanding with U.S.-based battery recycler Princeton NuEnergy to deepen cooperation on lithium-ion battery recycling, following joint technical work that produced recycled cathode materials comparable to newly manufactured alternatives.
The agreement builds on collaboration that began in 2022, during which Honda and Princeton NuEnergy validated plasma-based direct recycling and upcycling technologies for lithium-ion batteries. The work focused on recovering materials from both manufacturing scrap and end-of-life batteries, according to the companies.
Princeton NuEnergy said the joint testing resulted in rejuvenated nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cathode active material that matched the performance of virgin material, a milestone that could support closed-loop battery supply chains as automakers scale electrification.
“Our work with Honda shows strong technical alignment and a clear pathway for advancing circular battery materials,” said Chao Yan, co-founder and chief executive of Princeton NuEnergy, adding that the MOU reflects a shared focus on moving toward commercial-scale applications.
Under the agreement, Honda Motor Co. and Princeton NuEnergy will establish a framework for further validation projects and assess opportunities to apply the recycling technology at larger scale. The companies said the collaboration supports Honda’s electrification strategy and efforts to reduce reliance on newly mined battery materials.
Advanced battery recycling has drawn growing attention in the United States as automakers and policymakers seek to strengthen domestic supply chains and improve energy security. Direct recycling methods aim to retain the structure and value of cathode materials, potentially lowering costs and emissions compared with conventional hydrometallurgical processes.
Princeton NuEnergy has been expanding its U.S. footprint as demand for recycled battery materials grows. The company said its platform spans direct recycling, advanced black mass production and upcycled cathode active materials, and has been recognised for new manufacturing investments in recent years.