GRINNER Unveils a European Innovation in the Recycling Industry

Jun 23, 2025

A breakthrough industrial equipment using artificial intelligence and dual X-ray scanning

Installed and tested under real operating conditions at the GreenWEEE plant in Buzău, the system is an advanced solution that uses artificial intelligence and dual-energy X-ray scanning to automatically detect batteries in old electronics. Its purpose: to prevent lithium-ion battery fires and optimize industrial processes, at a time when such incidents are increasingly common across Europe, with over 30 recycling facility fires reported weekly.

GRINNER is the industry’s response to the growing need for innovation in recycling. The system is the result of three years of research, international collaboration, and a shared commitment to safety and efficiency. It’s more than a technology, it’s a safety shield for people, the environment, and industrial infrastructure.

By automatically identifying embedded batteries in e-waste, GRINNER significantly reduces fire risks, conserves resources, protects lives, and sets a new safety benchmark in electronic waste treatment. It offers the industry a reliable, accurate, and replicable solution to one of the most pressing risks in the sector.

Marius Costache, General Manager of GreenWEEE

From electric toothbrushes, remote controls, and toys, to mobile phones and portable speakers, millions of e-waste items arrive at recycling centres every day. Many contain hidden batteries that are nearly impossible to spot with the naked eye. Without effective detection systems, these batteries can ignite during mechanical processing, or even while in storage.

The official launch event took place on June 18, at the GreenWEEE plant in Buzău, in the presence of international consortium partners and representatives from the recycling industry.

The GRINNER project has a total value of €3 million and is developed by an international consortium of seven organisations from seven countries, with support from the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme. The consortium members include: GreenWEEE International SA (Romania), WEEE Forum (Belgium), LYNQ Poland (Poland), Tech Hive Labs (Greece), Erion Compliance Organization SCARL (Italy), Varex Imaging AB (Sweden), and the University of Essex (UK).

What GRINNER brings to the industry:

  • The system automatically detects batteries in e-waste at speeds of up to 1 meter/second, including lithium-ion, button cell, and AA batteries.
  • Fully automated, GRINNER does not rely on device shape or appearance. Instead, it identifies batteries based on their material signature—ensuring accurate results regardless of orientation or casing.
  • GRINNER offers high operational flexibility and can be integrated into existing recycling lines or used as a stand-alone system, depending on the recycler’s needs.

GRINNER helps prevent fires in recycling facilities, enhances sorting efficiency, protects workers, and reduces pollution risks. At the same time, it supports the EU’s goals for responsible recycling and improved waste treatment safety.

For more information, do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@grinnerproject.eu!