Battery Material

South Korean chemical company Posco Future M signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese battery material manufacturer CNGR and its South Korean subsidiary, FINO. They plan to develop the business of cathode materials for lithium iron phosphate batteries, initially targeting the energy storage systems market. Plans include constructing production facilities for LFP cathode materials and engaging in joint marketing activities. The companies did not disclose any specific details about potential production capacity or timelines. Implementation will be carried out through C&P New Material Technology, a joint venture founded in 2024. CNGR holds a 51 percent stake in the venture, FINO holds a 29 percent stake, and Posco Future M holds a 20 percent stake. Originally established for the production of precursor materials for battery cathodes, the joint venture is currently building a factory in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province. Series production is scheduled to begin there in 2026. Source:https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10551517

US battery developer LiCAP Technologies has announced the commissioning of a new production line for dry coatings. Once at full capacity, the line is expected to reach an annual output of 300 MWh. The California Energy Commission (CEC) is providing financial support for the project. The company reports that the first cathode film, over 500 meters long, was produced using its proprietary “Activated Dry Electrode” technology. This process does not use toxic solvents and is expected to reduce energy consumption and manufacturing costs. The new production line is said to be compatible with various types of batteries, including lithium-ion, solid-state, and sodium-ion batteries. LiCAP sees this step as transitioning from technology development to industrial production. Starting in August 2025, the company plans to deliver the first product samples from the new line to customers. Source:https://www.newswire.com/news/licap-technologies-and-california-energy-commission-celebrate-major-22610676

BASF and CATL will be expanding their collaboration in the field of cathode materials launched in 2021 from Europe to the entire world.

Canadian company Mangrove Lithium plans a refinery in North America with an annual capacity of 20,000 tons of battery-grade lithium.

South Korean battery manufacturer SK On has signed a supply agreement with EcoPro Innovation for lithium hydroxide to be used in U.S. battery plants.

South Korean battery producer SK On and materials manufacturer L&F plan to collaborate on the supply of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode materials for the North American market.

Rock Tech Lithium from Canada is to supply lithium hydroxide from its intended German plant to the European cathode production of Ronbay Technology from China.

As a result of a joint venture between investment fund Al Mada and CNGR Advanced Material from China, COBCO has started producing battery components in Morocco.

Lucid Group has signed agreements with Canadian and Australian battery material companies Graphite One and Syrah Resources for the multi-year supply of natural graphite.