BATTSi

The demand for high-purity silicon in battery manufacturing is growing rapidly, yet its conventional production methods put heavy strain on the environment. At the same time, various industrial sectors generate large amounts of underutilized silicon-rich by-products, such as brewers’ grain husks and geosilica from geothermal energy production. The new international BATTSi project (Valorization of Industrial Waste Streams for Battery Grade Silicon), coordinated by Centria University of Applied Sciences, aims to address this challenge.

The project develops novel technologies to convert silicon-containing industrial side streams into battery-grade silicon, suitable for use in lithium-ion battery anodes. The initiative supports the green transition, reduces dependence on virgin raw materials, and creates new business opportunities, particularly for companies operating in Northern regions. 

Silicon holds enormous promise as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries due to its high capacity. Our work focuses on unlocking its potential through sustainable, circular production methods, says Project Manager Dr. Egidija Rainosalo from Centria.

BATTSi will produce a comprehensive roadmap for technology transfer and commercialization, supported by pilot actions and databases of testing services. The project will also assess the environmental impact and scalability of the technologies developed. It brings together research institutions, SMEs, and large industrial partners from Finland, Iceland, Ireland, and Sweden.

Additionally to Centria UAS other research partners include the University of Eastern Finland, the University of Iceland, the University of Limerick, and Luleå University of Technology. Industry collaboration includes partners such as MACON Ltd, Anora Group Ltd, Terrafame Ltd, Bottenvikens bryggeri Ltd, Orka nátturunnar, HS Orka, Treaty City Brewery Ltd, Blackwater distillery Ltd, Glantreo Ltd. The project is collaborating also with the public business developing supporters in  the regions with strong representation of battery value chain actors, they are Navitas Ltd in Varkaus, Kokkola City and The Arctic Center of Energy. Macon Oy will lead preparation of industry for technology transfer and commercialization.

The final outputs – technical guidelines, policy briefs, and training materials – will be shared with companies and public authorities to support the adoption of circular and sustainable solutions in the battery value chain. BATTSi directly supports the European Green Deal, Finland’s Battery Strategy, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially by promoting the reuse of materials and industrial waste valorization.