Metastable Materials Deep-Tech Startup

Metastable Materials is a cutting-edge deep-tech startup based in Bengaluru, founded in 2021 by a trio of IIT Roorkee alumni: Shubham Vishvakarma, Manikumar Uppala, and Saurav Goyal. United by a shared vision of advancing sustainable recycling and circularity, the founders combine expertise in industrial engineering, process innovation, and supply chain strategy to tackle one of the most pressing environmental challenges—end-of-life lithium-ion battery waste.

Their breakthrough comes via a proprietary, chemical-free method called Integrated Carbothermal Reduction™ (ICR). This advanced process extracts critical materials like lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and aluminum from spent batteries with over 90% efficiency—without using harsh chemicals or generating toxic byproducts. The result is an environmentally responsible, energy-efficient alternative to conventional recycling methods.

In 2022, Metastable inaugurated a 21,000-square-foot “urban mining” facility near Bengaluru capable of processing up to 1,500 tonnes of battery waste annually. This facility serves as both a production and R&D hub, enabling process refinements and scaling of operations in pursuit of cost-effective, next-generation recycling.

To ensure safe handling of hazardous waste, the company also developed specialized multi-layered, fire-resistant packaging solutions—mitigating transport risks associated with battery recycling.

With backing from top-tier investors including Sequoia India’s Surge program, Speciale Invest, Theia Ventures, and angel supporters, Metastable is rapidly expanding its team and capabilities. Industry veteran Daniel Troedsson, with deep experience in battery systems and sustainable energy, also joined as a strategic advisor to guide their global expansion.

Metastable Materials is more than a recycling company—it’s building the infrastructure for a sustainable battery lifecycle, aiming to close the metals supply loop and reduce dependence on raw mining. In doing so, it’s enabling India and potentially the world to move toward a cleaner, circular economy.