Firebird Metals Ltd (ASX:FRB, OTC:FRBMF) managing director Peter Allen sits down with Proactive’s Jonathan Jackson after the company formalised a strategic partnership with Central South University (CSU) in Hunan, China, aimed at developing a processing method for lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) as a cathode active material (CAM). This collaboration supports Firebird’s objective to become a significant producer of battery-grade manganese sulphate in China, a key component for LMFP batteries used in electric vehicles.
The agreement focuses on developing Firebird’s proposed manganese sulphate facility in Jinshi, Hunan, into a streamlined LMFP producer by bypassing the traditional crystallisation step, lowering production costs and enhancing quality. CSU, recognised for its expertise in battery material processes, will work alongside Firebird’s R&D team, conducting lab-scale tests and leading a scoping study to plan a pilot plant with a daily capacity of one tonne.
Professors Xing Ou and Lei Ming, both prominent experts in LMFP development, will guide the project, building on existing progress in LMFP technology. Firebird will invest RMB850,000 (A$188,000) over 15 months, gaining ownership of all test results and patents. Initial results from the test work are expected next quarter, positioning Firebird to meet rising demand in the lithium-ion battery sector.