Honda, Princeton NuEnergy To Work Together On Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has signed a memorandum of understanding with U.S.-based Princeton NuEnergy Inc. to explore collaboration on next-generation lithium-ion battery recycling technologies, the companies said.

The agreement aims to strengthen circular battery material supply chains and support U.S. energy independence through advanced recycling and material rejuvenation pathways.

Plasma-based direct recycling

Honda and Princeton NuEnergy have been jointly validating the latter’s plasma-based direct recycling and upcycling technologies since 2022, focusing on lithium-ion battery manufacturing scrap and end-of-life materials. As part of the work, Princeton NuEnergy has produced rejuvenated nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cathode active material with performance comparable to virgin material, the companies said.

The MoU provides a framework for further collaborative validation projects and could lead to commercial-scale deployment in the future. The partnership aligns with Honda’s global electrification strategy and Princeton NuEnergy’s closed-loop approach to producing battery-grade cathode materials.

Towards High-Performance Materials 

“Our work with Honda demonstrates a clear pathway for advancing circular battery materials,” said Princeton NuEnergy co-founder and chief executive Chao Yan, adding that the agreement reflects a shared focus on scaling sustainable, high-performance materials.

Honda said advanced recycling technologies would play a key role in building a more sustainable battery materials ecosystem and supporting its long-term electrification plans.

The announcement follows Princeton NuEnergy’s recent recognition for expanding its U.S. manufacturing footprint, including the 2025 Smart Move SC New Plant Award, as the company seeks to strengthen domestic production of advanced battery materials and reduce reliance on imported critical minerals.