Altech Chemicals Ltd (ASX:ATC) has inked a framework agreement with German institute Fraunhofer IKTS to expedite the testing and qualification process for Altech’s Silumina Anodes™ product.
IKTS is considered one of the leading research centres for battery materials around the world, home to labs, technical centres, state-of-the-art laboratory machinery and pilot plants. The institute recently opened its Battery Innovation and Technology Center (BITC) in Arnstadt.
Independently testing the long-term performance of Altech’s anode technology in various battery applications is the core aim of the strategic partnership with IKTS, which will provide extensive performance testing through its lithium-ion battery research and network of partners.
Ultimately, the testing data will support the qualification process of the Silumina Anodes product for potential customers and facilitate early commercialisation.
Pilot-scale plant study
Altech recently completed a pre-feasibility study (PFS) assessing the development of a 10,000 tonnes per annum Silumina Anodes plant in Germany, after demonstrating the Silumina technology could create a 30% more energy dense battery with improved cyclability and battery life.
Assuming a capital investment of A$138.1 million (US$95 million), the PFS demonstrated a net present value (NPV) of A$737.4 million (US$507 million) with yearly net free cash generation of A$91.6 million (US$63 million) and an internal rate of return (IRR) for the project estimated at 40%.
Altech says it’s well-positioned to dramatically reduce supply risks by developing its operation in Germany and sourcing its feedstock from European suppliers, a priority in the turbulent conditions of the supply chain.