Litech: detecting hidden hazards in waste with advanced technology
28 February 2025
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The rapid rise of lithium batteries has created a major challenge for the waste industry. When disposed of incorrectly, these batteries can become hazardous, leading to internal shorts, self-ignition, and even large-scale fires. In fact, an estimated 80% of fires at waste facilities are caused by improperly sorted batteries.
Norwegian startup Litech is addressing this urgent issue with a solution that detects and removes lithium and lithium-ion batteries from waste streams before they cause damage. Founded in 2021, the company combines the latest research with industry expertise to create a sensor that waste facilities have never seen before – a step toward safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly waste management.
A smarter way to detect hidden hazards
Traditional detection methods, such as X-ray systems and image recognition, come with limitations. X-ray technology requires extensive modifications to waste facilities, while image recognition can only detect objects at the surface, missing deeply buried hazards.
Litech has developed what CEO Synne Sauar describes as “the world’s most advanced metal detector for the waste industry.” Using electromagnetic induction spectroscopy combined with AI, the system generates a unique magnetic fingerprint for every conductive object passing through it. Unlike standard metal detectors, which simply identify the presence of metal, Litech’s technology can determine the exact alloy composition – allowing it to pinpoint hazardous objects such as lithium batteries and even laughing gas containers before they pose a risk.
The waste industry has long struggled with undetectable hazardous objects. Our sensor is the first of its kind that can penetrate layers of waste and classify materials at a detailed level, ensuring dangerous items are removed before they cause harm.
Synne Sauar, CEO & Co-Founder of Litech
Beyond waste management: a vision for circular economy
While the waste sector is Litech’s first focus, the technology’s potential goes far beyond. By enabling safer and more precise sorting, it not only reduces environmental and financial damage from waste facility fires but also improves recycling rates – a crucial step in advancing the circular economy.
Looking ahead, Litech sees opportunities in other industries that require high-precision metal detection, such as manufacturing and even airport security.
The role of strategic investment
Scaling a deep-tech innovation like Litech’s requires both capital and industry connections – which is where EIT Manufacturing has played a key role.
Through its Investment programmes, EIT Manufacturing became an investor in Litech, providing not only funding but also access to critical networks. Litech also participated in the Venture Building Programme, which helped refine its business model and investment strategy, making it more attractive to potential venture capital partners.
Innovation thrives through collaboration. By adopting a user-oriented approach and partnering with industry leaders, we’ve gained valuable resources, expertise, and insights, which have been key to our success and ensuring our product reaches its full potential.
Ida Marie Thin Pedersen, Co-Founder and CPO of Litech
A story of innovation and women entrepreneurship
Litech’s journey also highlights the role of women entrepreneurs in deep-tech innovation. Founded by two female entrepreneurs, the company naturally integrates diversity and inclusion into its DNA. While not something they actively promote as a core value, it remains an inherent part of their identity – helping set an example for future innovators in the industry.
Driving change in waste management and beyond
By preventing hazardous incidents and enabling better resource recovery, Litech is helping to close the loop in the battery lifecycle – an essential step toward a true circular economy. As the company continues to scale, it demonstrates how advanced sensing technology, paired with strategic investment, can drive meaningful change: not just in waste management, but across industries striving for more sustainable and responsible production.
Stay tuned for more stories about startups transforming European manufacturing!