Abstract: A process for recovery of the silica present in the separators located between the elements of lead-acid batteries characterized in that it comprises the following operations: a) washing the heavy plastics to remove the lead compounds and other foreign bodies, b) separating the plastics from the washing solution, c) lead recovery and regeneration of the washing solution, d) rinsing of the plastics, e) drying of the plastics, f) separation of the granular plastics from the thin plastics (polyethylene with silica filler, PVC, fabrics) by drawing them up in a flow of air making use of the shape effect, g) separation of the PVC and fabrics from the polyethylene with silica filler through fragmentation, h) pyrolysis of the polyethylene with silica filler, i) cracking of the pyrolysis gases and vapours in order to reduce their molecular weight and render them more suitable for handling and combustion to provide the heat necessary for pyrolysis, j) oxidation of the pyrolysis residue to remove carbonaceous residues a

Abstract: Process for desulphating a solid mixture and/or aggregate resulting from the breaking up of lead-acid batteries, comprising electrode slime containing lead compounds belonging to the group comprising oxides, oxidated compounds and sulphates, through contact with an aqueous solution of sodium carbonate and a substance dissolving lanarkite in which the said solid residues containing lead compounds are suspended, in which the solid phase of the suspension is subjected to a chemical reaction whose action is assisted by brushing, shear and compression forces exerted by brushing or scraping and compressing mechanical means, thus achieving almost total desulphatation.