Albemarle Corporation stands as one of the world’s leading providers of lithium, bromine, and specialty chemicals. Founded in 1887 in Richmond, Virginia, the company has transformed from a paper manufacturing business into a global chemical manufacturing enterprise. Today, Albemarle serves approximately 70 countries worldwide, employing around 9,000 people across its operations. The company focuses on creating essential materials for mobility, energy storage, connectivity, and health applications. With more than 1,600 active patents, Albemarle demonstrates substantial technical expertise and innovation capacity in chemical manufacturing and processing.
Battery Technology
Albemarle’s contribution to battery technology centers on its lithium production and processing capabilities. The company produces essential lithium compounds, including lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, and lithium chloride, which form the foundation of lithium-ion batteries. Through its advanced manufacturing processes, Albemarle develops specialized lithium materials that enhance battery performance, particularly for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
The company’s technical achievements include developing lithium formations that enable higher kiln loading and reduced calcination times in cathode production. This innovation has resulted in doubled throughput capacity and significant energy savings. Albemarle also works on specialized lithium metal anodes, creating components thinner than human blood cells with protective coatings to prevent atmospheric reactions, thereby improving battery longevity and reducing manufacturing expenses.
In partnership with 6K, Albemarle utilizes UniMelt® plasma technology for sustainable battery material production. This process achieves 70% lower CO2 emissions and 90% reduced water consumption compared to traditional methods, while maintaining high-quality output standards.
Recent Projects
In January 2024, Albemarle announced a structural reorganization to implement a fully integrated functional operating model, moving away from its previous two-unit structure. The company established a $200 million lithium research center in Charlotte’s University Research Park, focusing on advanced material development and process improvements. Additionally, Albemarle received recognition from TIME Magazine as one of the World’s Best Companies and was listed among America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity.
Investors
Albemarle’s major institutional investors include Vanguard Group Inc. (12.11%), Capital Research & Management Co. (11.16%), BlackRock Advisors LLC (11.00%), Fiduciary Trust Company International (9.477%), and State Street Corporation (5.580%). These investment firms maintain substantial positions in the company, demonstrating confidence in Albemarle’s business model and growth potential.
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, USA (4250 Congress Street, Suite 900, 28209)
Website: https://albemarle.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/albemarlecorp
