The EPO published patent EP4197662A1 for Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd. covering a method for treating sulfide compounds in battery material processing. The patent addresses treatment processes applicable to battery recycling (H01M 10/54) and various metallurgical extraction methods under C22B classifications including hydrometallurgical techniques. Designated states include all European Patent Convention contracting states across the EU and EEA.

This publication imposes no compliance obligations, filing requirements, or deadlines on any party. It is an informational notice of intellectual property rights that does not create regulatory obligations. Entities engaged in battery recycling or sulfide treatment may review the patent claims to assess licensing needs or freedom-to-operate considerations, but no regulatory action is required.