CarbonScape has reported a significant advancement in its biographite production process, achieving a 90% spheroidization yield for battery-grade graphite. This performance notably exceeds the typical industry yield, where traditional mined graphite producers achieve yields between 30% and 60%, and even the most advanced synthetic producers reach up to 80%.
Dr. Heinrich Badenhorst, CarbonScape’s Chief Technical Officer, highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating, “The spheroidization process has long been a critical bottleneck in graphite production for batteries. Our 90% yield further strengthens the economics of our biographite compared to existing graphite production.” Spheroidization involves transforming graphite particles into nearly perfect spheres through precise mechanical milling, which enhances the packing density and energy storage capacity of battery materials. Historically, this process has been inefficient, resulting in significant material loss.
Vincent Ledoux-Pedailles, Chief Commercial Officer of CarbonScape, emphasized the economic and environmental benefits of the breakthrough: “A 90% spheroidization yield with our biographite means higher efficiency, lower costs, and a cleaner supply chain for lithium-ion batteries – all while reducing reliance on mined and fossil-derived graphite.”
This achievement is particularly noteworthy in the context of global supply chain challenges, especially given China’s dominant position in battery-grade graphite production and recent export restrictions. CarbonScape’s innovative approach offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative, which is increasingly vital for the electric vehicle and energy storage industries seeking to secure reliable and environmentally friendly supply sources.
CarbonScape is actively expanding its market presence through strategic partnerships and investments, with plans to establish multiple commercial plants across Europe and North America. This expansion aims to transition the graphite market from being predominantly mining-based to one centered on renewable materials and efficient processing techniques, supporting the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
Recent developments for CarbonScape include securing renewable feedstock agreements for its biographite production sites in the US and Europe, completing engineering studies for demonstration and commercial plants in Finland, and achieving Tier 1 specifications in product validation with leading cell manufacturers and OEMs globally. The company is also progressing with a capital raise through Morgan Stanley and has submitted public funding applications in both Europe and the United States.
CarbonScape Limited, headquartered in New Zealand, specializes in converting forestry by-products into high-quality, battery-grade biographite using a proprietary and sustainable process. The company operates a pilot plant in New Zealand and is finalizing financing for its European demonstration plant, with plans to build multiple industrial facilities in Europe and North America. CarbonScape has attracted investment from major battery manufacturer ATL and forestry giant Stora Enso, supporting its efforts to enhance the sustainability of the battery supply chain.
Source: CarbonScape
