FAQ

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) processed at the Calibre Metals will be sourced from dedicated battery collectors, such as council landfills, scrap metal collectors and battery collection bins at supermarkets, hardware stores and other authorised locations throughout Australia.

The incoming waste LIB will be transported to the facility in specialised non-conductive containers, in accordance with the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code (Figure 1).

Figure 1 An example of UN certified containers used for LIB transport

Thermal runaway is a serious but well-understood risk when handling Lithium-ion batteries. Thermal runaway can occur when a battery is abused (physical damage), is overcharged or charged on inappropriate charger, or is exposed to extreme temperatures (above 100 ^oC).

Specific risks for stored LIB include physical damage or exposure to extreme temperatures (usually above 100 °C).

Calibre Metals has designed its recycling process to prevent thermal runaway from occurring using a combination of a transport and packing standard, early detection, safe handling, and advanced engineering controls. Each battery is inspected on arrival. Any battery found to be damaged or overheated is immediately quarantined, safely discharged, then processed under a nitrogen blanket in an enclosed shredder, which eliminates ignition risk.

Incoming LIB are stored within concrete bunkers and wireless temperature sensors are placed in each storage container to monitor for heat build-up, with any container exceeding 60°C flagged for urgent attention.

All undamaged LIB are safely discharged to remove any remaining electrical energy, prior to shredding. Smaller batteries are placed in a saltwater solution that gently drains their charge over about an hour, while larger batteries are discharged using dedicated electronic equipment.

The shredding process is conducted in a nitrogen-rich environment, reducing the presence of oxygen to almost zero, making it impossible for a fire to start or spread. The shredder is sealed with an airlock system, fitted with oxygen sensors, and fed in small batches to limit the amount of material being processed at once.

Any gases released during shredding are immediately drawn into a gas treatment system that includes a controlled combustion chamber and gas scrubbers, ensuring that no harmful gases are released into the environment.

These measures, combined with strict procedures and continuous monitoring, ensure that the risk of thermal runaway is effectively controlled, protecting workers, the facility, and the surrounding community.

Calibre Metals adheres to rigorous safety standards and documented procedures for every phase of battery handling, dismantling, and storage. These are outlined in the facility’s Safe Work Instructions (SWIs), which are regularly reviewed and approved by management.

During receipt and storage, batteries are inspected for damage and temperature, and only compliant units are stored. Non-conforming batteries are quarantined and handled separately.

During dismantling and discharge, batteries are processed according to their voltage. Units below 50V are dismantled to the cell level and discharged in a saltwater solution.

Batteries above 50V are discharged using electronic units that safely remove residual charge. These batteries are then dismantled using appropriate tools, and components are sorted by battery chemistry. Plastics and metals are separated for recycling, and waste is disposed of in designated bins.

Electrical safety is a priority. Operators use insulated mats rated to 1000V and wear electrical hazard-resistant boots. Voltage checks determine the appropriate discharge method, and OEM dismantling instructions are followed where available.

Environmental controls include spill kits, chemical spill response training, and bunded storage areas. The facility will operate under an Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) and a Pollution Incident Response Management Plan (PIRMP), which cover stormwater management and fire wash water containment. These procedures ensure that battery recycling is conducted safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with regulatory and environmental standards.

Calibre Metals have selected the best available technology for the Wagga Wagga LIB Recycling Facility, to provide the most efficient processing operation and minimise emissions. The facility will incorporate multiple air pollution controls to ensure the safety of workers and the surrounding community. A range of engineering controls will be installed, with monitoring systems, including scrubbers and regenerative catalytic oxidisers to remove pollutants from the air, before releasing it into the atmosphere. The facility will operate under and Environmental Protection Licence (EPL).

Multiple locations were evaluated and considered for the project. The chosen site, Building 107, 61 Edison Road, East Wagga Wagga was selected as it is located within an existing purpose-built industrial estate. The site is zoned E4 General Industrial under the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2010, where resource recovery facilities are permissible. Importantly, as the proposed facility involves the retro-fit of an existing approved industrial warehouse, this significantly reduces the environmental footprint, of the project.

In contrast, alternative sites in the Bomen Special Activation Precinct (SAP) were found to be unfeasible due to the considerably larger lot sizes and not suited to a facility of this small scale.

Calibre Metals has undertaken community engagement activities throughout the development of the project including meetings with government agencies and Council, letterbox drops to nearby business and residential areas and provided regular updates via the project website. These efforts were designed to inform stakeholders and the local community about the project and provide opportunities for feedback. Where appropriate feedback received has been incorporated into the project design.