The University of South Wales (USW) has announced a groundbreaking Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Dragon Recycling Solutions (Dragon RS), a specialist recycling company, to develop intelligent systems which will transform battery recycling.
The £197,600 project, led by Dr Nildo Costa – who is the project’s principal investigator and will oversee the knowledge transfer from USW to Dragon RS – will support the creation of a state-of-the-art recycling plant for spent batteries. Based in Tredegar, Dragon RS will work closely with USW to enhance its recycling processes through the integration of smart technologies.
Dragon RS currently manages large volumes of lithium thionyl chloride batteries. This KTP aims to address the challenge of battery waste by developing systems which enable the efficient recovery of critical raw materials, contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy.
“This partnership is a prime example of how academia and industry can collaborate to tackle pressing environmental and business challenges,” said Sarah Jeremiah, External Engagement Manager (Development) at USW.
“Dr Sheikh Rehman, the KTP Associate, will be embedded within Dragon RS to lead the technical development.
“This is more than a technical project. It’s a strategic move to boost regional innovation, strengthen industry-academic collaboration, and support environmental sustainability.”
The 24-month initiative marks the first step towards establishing a Battery Recycling Centre of Excellence at Dragon RS, positioning the company as a leader in the sector and creating high-skill jobs which will benefit the local economy.
Beth Bysouth of Dragon RS said: “Partnering with USW will accelerate our development as a trusted name in battery recycling. With more than 250,000 batteries currently in storage and significant investment in a new recycling facility, this KTP will be instrumental in expanding our capabilities across the UK and Europe while reinforcing our commitment to corporate social responsibility through sustainable practices and circular economy principles”.
KTPs are a UK and Welsh Government-backed programme which connects forward-thinking businesses with academic institutions to drive innovation. It’s a three-way collaboration involving the company’s business partner, academics at the University, and a KTP Associate, who is a graduate or postgraduate. The Associate delivers the project within the business and facilitates knowledge transfer between the University and the business.
