Perspectives on LFP Recycling: Will Europe Follow China?

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode active materials, alongside layered oxide chemistries, constitute the most important group of cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries. China has commercialized LFP batteries for mass market applications and is today the leading producer, with a market share of approximately 90%. European companies are also increasingly using LFP batteries, but the value chain is only in its early stages. This article describes the differences between the Chinese and European LFP recycling industries and discusses the implications of the different levels of market maturity. The central argument of this opinion paper is that LFP recycling in Europe should not be viewed as an isolated metallurgical challenge. Its economic and strategic viability depends on the development of an integrated LFP value chain and suitable markets for all relevant recovered products. China is therefore discussed not as a directly transferable blueprint, but as a reference case illustrating the importance of scale, value-chain integration, operational know-how, and rapid industrial implementation. To overcome these roadblocks, a comprehensive European strategy is needed which includes securing strategic raw materials, reducing production costs, building up domestic know-how, and engendering smart cooperation among all stakeholders.