Ionic Mineral Technologies (Ionic MT), a prominent developer of silicon-based battery materials, has appointed Dr. Ismail Yildirim as its new Head of Production. Dr. Yildirim, who possesses over 25 years of expertise in industrial mineral processing and hydrometallurgical engineering, will oversee the scaling of Ionisil™, Ionic MT’s nano-silicon anode material derived from halloysite. Additionally, he will lead the commercialization of the company’s high-purity alumina by-product, boehmite, which is essential for next-generation battery applications and other industries.
Andre Zeitoun, CEO of Ionic Mineral Technologies, stated that Dr. Yildirim’s extensive experience in scaling complex mineral refining processes and delivering significant operational efficiencies is crucial for meeting the increasing global demand for advanced lithium-ion battery materials. Zeitoun emphasized that Dr. Yildirim’s leadership will position Ionic MT at the forefront of nano-silicon anode development and enhance revenue opportunities through the high-purity alumina portfolio.
Throughout his career, Dr. Yildirim has demonstrated a strong ability to transform raw materials into high-value products. His previous roles at KaMin LLC, BASF Corporation, and IMERYS have involved developing innovative materials for commercial use and successfully scaling mineral refining processes from laboratory studies to full-scale production. His expertise in kaolin processing and alumina refining, particularly in producing high-purity alumina silicates, aligns with Ionic MT’s objectives to expand its product offerings and optimize resource utilization.
Dr. Yildirim holds a Ph.D. in Mining and Minerals Engineering from Virginia Tech and is the holder of multiple patents related to kaolin purification, calcination, and alumina silicate innovations. His advanced knowledge in hydrometallurgical engineering will support the acceleration of Ionisil commercialization and the development of strategic battery materials for applications such as battery separators and coatings.
In his new role, Dr. Yildirim expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the production of both Ionisil nano-silicon and high-purity alumina, highlighting the importance of securing a reliable domestic supply of critical materials for next-generation energy storage solutions.
Under Dr. Yildirim’s guidance, Ionic MT aims to expedite the deployment of Ionisil to support electric vehicle manufacturers and energy storage providers globally, while also leveraging the boehmite alumina co-product to create additional revenue streams. His combination of technical acumen and operational expertise reinforces the company’s dedication to delivering high-performance, cost-effective domestic material solutions on a large scale.
Source: Ionic MT, LinkedIn post
