EcoGraf (ASX:EGR; FSE:FMK) Advances Battery Anode Material Production with PQF Operational Success

Highlights

• EcoGraf's HFfree® Product Qualification Facility (PQF) successfully completes operational campaigns, continuously producing high-purity spherical graphite (SPG) that meets battery anode specifications.
• The campaigns generate valuable data that supports the planned commercial-scale deployment of the EcoGraf HFfree® purification process.
• A non-binding agreement has been signed with an international chemical group for potential SPG supply.
• A letter of support from a battery manufacturer highlights growing interest in EcoGraf’s technology.
• IP Australia has recently accepted EcoGraf's second patent application.

EcoGraf Limited (ASX:EGR; FSE:FMK) has successfully completed its Product Qualification Facility (PQF) operational campaign.

The PQF campaign has demonstrated its ability to consistently produce high purity EcoGraf HFfree® purified spherical graphite (SPG). This graphite meets the chemical specifications required by battery anode manufacturers and retains the critical physical properties necessary for lithium battery applications.

PQF Operational Update

Throughout the PQF production campaigns, key materials and equipment have performed reliably and effectively. The data generated continues to support the planned commercial-scale deployment of the EcoGraf HFfree® purification process.

This milestone follows last year’s successful commissioning phase of the PQF, as well as extensive bench-scale testing that confirmed the purification technology’s capability to achieve carbon purity levels up to 99.99%.

Analysis of the PQF product confirmed compliance with key chemical specifications for Iron (Fe), Silicon (Si), Sulphur (S), and Aluminium (Al). Rigorous process controls and rigorous testing have also ensured the SPG retains its essential physical properties, with positive assessments from customers supporting the PQF campaign results.

Customer and Manufacturer Engagement

EGR has executed a non-binding agreement with an international chemical group for the potential supply of SPG. Additionally, the company has received a letter of support from a leading battery manufacturer, endorsing its plans to establish an EcoGraf HFfree® purification facility. Commercial delivery under these agreements is subject to mutually agreed conditions, company approvals, and the finalisation of due diligence.

Furthermore, discussions continue with multiple automotive OEMs, battery manufacturers and other potential customers.

EcoGraf targets environmental and cost benefits

The HFfree® processing technology and EcoGraf’s vertically integrated battery anode materials development aim to offer significant cost and environmental advantages. The process starts with high-quality graphite from the Epanko Graphite Project in Tanzania, recognized as Africa’s largest "development-ready" graphite mineral resource.

Development Strategy and Patent Applications

EcoGraf’s development strategy focuses on establishing multiple purification facilities in key battery manufacturing hubs in Europe, North America, and Asia, leveraging its US-patented EcoGraf HFfree® processing technology. To meet growing demand for non-Chinese graphite supply in Europe and North America, the company is evaluating potential development sites. The demand is driven by increasing EU legislation and US Government tariffs.

Recently, IP Australia accepted EcoGraf’s second patent application, further extending coverage of EcoGraf HFfree® purification operations, including applications for anode recycling. This follows the first patent grant in the USA.

EGR shares were trading 2.11% higher at AU$0.097 per share at the time of writing on 6 February 2025.