THROUGH THE EYES OF...
NEILA DJOUDIHead of hydrometallurgy process development
Neila puts her hydrometallurgy knowledge to work for the recovery of strategic metals from electric batteries for more efficient recycling. A virtuous process benefiting the circular economy in today’s highly promising electric vehicle market.
What’s your job?
I lead and monitor internal and external R&D actions involving the hydrometallurgical process for the Orano batteries program. That means I help define and consolidate hydrometallurgy results with a view to the industrialization of the process, planned for the future Orano plant in Dunkirk.
How long since you joined the battery project?
I came to Orano and more specifically the batteries program recently, in November 2023.
Are you proud to be working on this project?
Absolutely! I believe this project will be a success. Recycling electric vehicle batteries will help to make the EU’s ambitions for circular economy and net zero become a reality.
Can you tell us about your background?
I’m a process engineer. During my doctoral thesis, I worked on recovering cobalt from leachates of used batteries. This led me to work in industry (in Belgium) on developing hydrometallurgical processes for battery recycling.
What do you like about your job?
Each day is different. We face a lot of challenges, which is a source of motivation for me.
Why would you recommend Orano to a friend or family member?
For the company’s values: innovation, know-how, and well-being in the workplace.
Sports, favorite activities?
I have two of them! Tennis to clear my mind and painting to relax.
What’s your favorite part of the day?
Morning! I like taking time to exercise and read before diving into batteries 
.
A motto or mantra that sticks with you?
“There are no easy successes or definitive failures.”