WeSort.AI's cutting-edge, fire-prevention technology utilises X-ray transmission technology together with in-depth AI algorithms to accurately identify and sort lithium batteries and battery-containing electrical devices. Positioned at the beginning of the input stream, the BatterySort ensures that dangerous batteries are effectively sorted out before they can cause damage. To do this, the material flow is scanned by special sensor technology. Recognised batteries are blown out with very powerful air pressure nozzles and transported into fireproof containers outside the sorting plant using a discharge conveyor. The separated batteries and electrical devices can then be returned to the recycling cycle.

 

The main reason for the increased risk of fire in waste sorting facilities is the incorrect disposal of rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries, which can cause fires spontaneously. As recently as autumn 2024, the Federal Association of the German Waste Management Industry reported a potential loss amount of 250 million euros per quarter for the recycling industry in Germany, which is exclusively attributable to fires. PreZero is also investing in an innovative AI sorting system in cooperation with WeSort.AI to increase safety for employees and neighbours. This investment also contributes to PreZero's zero-accident strategy - a concept that prioritises the safety and well-being of employees.

 

‘The increasing disposal of rechargeable batteries and batteries in the yellow bin - whether from e-bikes, e-cigarettes or other devices - presents us with urgent challenges. We need to respond to this, as lithium batteries not only contain valuable raw materials, but also pose a significant fire risk if they are disposed of improperly. It is time to make waste management safer and more sustainable with innovative solutions,’ explains Dr Manfred Rieglhofer, Managing Director of PreZero Sorting Austria. ‘With BatterySort, we can efficiently identify and remove potential sources of danger before they become a real threat.’

 

‘Our vision is to close the resource cycle as much as possible. To achieve this, we are developing object-based detection based on artificial intelligence that makes it possible to sort waste materials better and more efficiently,’ emphasises Nathanael Laier, CEO at WeSort.AI. ‘We are proud that we were able to win PreZero as a cooperation partner with our BatterySort system. As a pioneer in protecting against fires caused by incorrectly disposed lithium batteries, we are now working together to ensure plant safety and innovative, safe and environmentally friendly recycling.’ By working with WeSort.AI, PreZero is reaffirming its own pioneering role in efficient and sustainable waste management.

 

In addition to equipping the plant in Sollenau, PreZero plans to modernise other older and difficult-to-insure locations with the system. The innovative technology from WeSort.AI offers a genuine, preventative solution for fire prevention and also addresses a number of other financial and operational challenges.