UP Catalyst, established in Tallinn, Estonia, specializes in developing sustainable carbon materials derived from industrial CO2 emissions. The company produces high-quality carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphite through an innovative process that transforms CO2 into valuable materials for batteries, coatings, concrete, and composites. Their technology represents the first scalable method for utilizing CO2 emissions, with ambitious plans to prevent 118.7 megatons of CO2 emissions by 2030. This approach allows clients to enhance product performance while reducing their environmental impact.
Battery Technology
UP Catalyst’s primary contribution to battery technology centers on their Molten Salt Carbon Capture and Electrochemical Transformation (MSCC-ET) process. This method produces essential battery components, including multi-walled carbon nanotubes and battery-grade graphite, directly from CO2 emissions. The process operates using renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydro power.
The company’s sustainable graphite production addresses a significant challenge in battery manufacturing, as graphite constitutes approximately half of an electric car’s battery weight. Their carbon nanotubes improve battery performance by enhancing charging and discharging rates, energy density, and durability. UP Catalyst’s materials demonstrate significantly lower carbon footprints compared to traditional production methods, as confirmed by the Research Institutes of Sweden’s Life Cycle Assessment.
Recent Projects
In December 2023, UP Catalyst secured €2.36 million in seed extension funding to accelerate the construction of their first industrial production unit. This facility aims to process 100 tons of CO2 annually, producing 27 tons of advanced carbon materials. The company is also developing its third-generation reactor, supported by €1.5 million from Enterprise Estonia, focusing on producing high-purity carbon for battery applications.
Investors
UP Catalyst has attracted notable investors, including Extantia, a Berlin-based climate tech VC fund that led the €4 million seed funding round. Additional investors include SmartCap (Estonia’s state fund), Sunly (a renewable energy developer), Scottish Baltic Invest, Little Green Fund, UniTartu Ventures, and Warsaw Equity Group. These partnerships have been instrumental in advancing UP Catalyst’s production capabilities and market expansion.
Business Details
Location: Tallinn, Estonia
Website: https://upcatalyst.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/65611898
