Kalkine: ASX 200 Sees Innovation Boost as Firebird Metals Enhances Cathode Lab Capabilities

Highlights

• Firebird Metals Ltd (ASX:FRB, OTC:FRBMF) installs advanced cathode production equipment in China-based laboratory

• Integrated ‘ore-to-cathode’ LMFP production pathway now operational at lab scale

• Collaboration with Central South University supports LMFP material testing and development

Firebird Metals Ltd (ASX:FRB), (OTC:FRBMF) has achieved a significant technical advancement in the battery materials sector. The company has installed new cathode production equipment at its laboratory located in Jinshi, Hunan Province, China. This development aligns with broader innovations observed within the ASX 200 as companies pursue vertically integrated capabilities. The setup now enables lab-scale production of lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) cathode material from raw ore.

This installation strengthens Firebird’s technical infrastructure, creating a fully operational laboratory capable of processing manganese ore into cathode material using proprietary processes. This represents a major step in demonstrating production scalability and chemical consistency.

Lab-Scale ‘Ore-to-Cathode’ Process Now Functional

The new laboratory infrastructure allows Firebird Metals to carry out the complete production process internally—from manganese ore to final cathode active material. This integrated approach enables the daily production of LMFP samples for testing by downstream partners.

The process seamlessly combines manganese sulphate generation with precursor cathode active material (pCAM) formulation. It eliminates traditional steps such as manganese sulphate crystallisation, which are typically more energy-intensive. Firebird aims to streamline its operations while improving throughput and reducing resource consumption at this preliminary production level.

Strategic Research Collaboration with CSU

Firebird’s advancement aligns with its ongoing strategic partnership with Central South University (CSU) in Hunan. The collaboration includes the production of multiple LMFP cathode batches through co-precipitation techniques. These samples are then fabricated into button cells for electrochemical performance testing.

CSU’s reputation in battery material innovation, coupled with a strong alumni presence in the energy storage industry, enhances the partnership's depth. The test results from these button cells are expected to provide insights for large-scale cathode formulation and offer benchmarking for material quality.

Firebird’s Technical Edge in Manganese Supply Chain

Firebird’s process retains manganese sulphate in solution, bypassing crystallisation stages often seen in conventional flowsheets. This feature reduces input costs and supports a more efficient production methodology. By producing cathode active materials with fewer intermediate stages, Firebird aims to refine its product offerings while minimising energy demands.

The laboratory’s output is intended for sample testing by multiple third-party laboratories, enabling comparative evaluations of the LMFP material. This also positions the company to provide consistent, high-grade materials suitable for emerging manganese-rich battery chemistries.

Development Supports Broader Project Pipeline

The lab-based production complements Firebird’s broader resource strategy, including the development of the Oakover Project in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. The project features a significant manganese resource and underpins Firebird’s ambition to advance the manganese value chain.

Firebird Metals Ltd (ASX:FRB, OTC:FRBMF) continues to focus on sustainable, vertically integrated processes that strengthen its research capabilities and position it to address increasing demand for LMFP battery materials. The company’s innovations come at a time when broader markets, including those tracked by the ASX 200, are increasingly influenced by energy transition technologies and related supply chains.