EcoGraf Limited (ASX:EGR) (OTCMKTS:ECGFF) (FRA:FMK) will incorporate positive results from an international mechanical shaping program into the engineering design for its new Australian battery anode material facility in Western Australia.
The program was conducted using a commercial-scale plant, in collaboration with an industry-leading equipment manufacturer for the engineering design work of the new facility.
EcoGraf demonstrated that by improving the design of the mechanical shaping plant, an overall product yield of more than 60% can be achieved, which compares favourably to previously reported yields of 50%.
Three core product ranges
A key objective of the joint mechanical shaping program was to ensure the new EcoGrafTM Battery Anode Material Facility has maximum flexibility to efficiently produce a range of products to satisfy customer requirements.
The results of the program have confirmed the opportunity for the new facility to produce three core product ranges that include, a 15-16 micrometre(μm) battery anode material called SpG 16, an ultrafine battery anode material and their bi-products.
Notably, the ultrafine battery anode material referred to as ‘Super’ BAM is used for high-performance battery applications requiring improved energy density characteristics which typically attracts a premium pricing of 20-25% over SpG 16.
Data from the collaboration program will be included in the detailed engineering design works and final equipment selection in preparation for procurement and construction of the new facility.
Environmentally responsible
EcoGraf is building a diversified battery anode material business to produce high purity graphite products for the lithium-ion battery and advanced manufacturing markets.
The first new state-of-the-art EcoGraf processing facility in Western Australia will manufacture spherical graphite products for export to Asia, Europe and North America using environmentally responsible HFfree purification technology to provide customers with sustainably produced high-performance battery anode material.
Subsequently, the battery graphite production base will be expanded to include additional processing facilities in Europe and North America to support the global transition to clean, renewable energy in the coming decade and the rapid growth in battery materials.