CarbonScape, a New Zealand-based deep-tech company specializing in high-performance graphite for batteries, has announced the issuance of U.S. Patent No. US12187615B2. This patent recognizes CarbonScape’s innovative method for producing high-quality graphite derived from biochar, a carbon-rich byproduct of biomass.
The patented technology offers an alternative to traditional graphite production methods that are resource-intensive and environmentally challenging. By converting biochar and other compounds into low-surface-area graphite suitable for lithium-ion battery anodes, CarbonScape provides a sustainable solution vital for electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage applications.
Vincent Ledoux-Pedailles, Chief Commercial Officer of CarbonScape, stated that obtaining the U.S. patent confirms the unique value of their technology. The company aims to enhance its U.S. presence by providing a cost-competitive and sustainable graphite supply, utilizing domestic forestry resources. This approach not only supports scalability for manufacturers but also addresses environmental concerns and supply chain vulnerabilities.
CarbonScape’s expansion into the U.S. market comes at a time when demand for EV batteries is rapidly increasing, and current graphite production is minimal domestically. With China controlling approximately 95% of the global battery-grade graphite market, CarbonScape’s initiative seeks to reduce cost volatility and supply chain risks for U.S. manufacturers by leveraging locally available biomass and benefiting from supportive U.S. policies.
Key factors contributing to CarbonScape’s strategic position include securing agreements for sourcing commercial volumes of woodchips, especially from the Southeast U.S. forestry sector, ensuring reliable and cost-effective inputs for large-scale graphite production. Additionally, favorable U.S. government policies, such as Department of Energy and Department of Defense initiatives, high import tariffs on Chinese graphite, and executive orders supporting strategic material development, align with CarbonScape’s mission to establish a robust domestic graphite supply chain.
The company’s recent advancements include achieving a 90% spheroidization yield, indicating high efficiency in their proprietary process for producing battery-grade graphite. CarbonScape is also expanding its renewable feedstock supply agreements across the U.S. to support the growing battery manufacturing and electric mobility sectors.
CarbonScape operates a pilot plant in New Zealand since 2018 and plans to commence operations at its demonstration plant in 2026, moving towards full commercialization. The company has secured investments from major battery manufacturer ATL and forestry corporation Stora Enso, and is planning to build multiple industrial plants in Europe and North America.
Source: CarbonScape
