AI-based X-ray battery detection for improved efficiency at recycling facilities

By using the latest innovations in image recognition technology together with X-ray imaging, the project aims to automate the process of sorting battery-containing WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) to make it more efficient and safer.

There are regulations that require batteries in battery-containing WEEE to be removed and recycled separately to achieve the best possible recycling.

This need is further strengthened as Li-ion batteries are sensitive to mechanical damage and can start fires later in the process. This can and has in some cases led to catastrophic consequences. At the same time, the presence of minor fires at WEEE recycling plants is a common and costly feature. At present, this sorting is done manually.

This is resource intensive and inevitably mistakes are made.

The project group has through its solid expertise in recycling, X-ray imaging and image recognition, very good prerequisite to achieve the project's goals in a satisfactory manner.