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Highlights
- Lithium Universe finalises due diligence on strategic clean tech acquisition
- Exclusive rights secured for patented solar panel recycling innovation
- Expansion supports sustainable materials recovery and circular economy goals
Lithium Universe (ASX:LU7) is progressing its push into clean energy technology following the completion of legal due diligence for its acquisition of New Age Minerals Pty Ltd. The acquisition grants Lithium Universe exclusive global rights to a patented solar panel recycling technology developed by Macquarie University, known as Microwave Joule Heating Technology (MJHT).
The company had initially secured the rights to the innovative MJHT platform in mid-June 2025. With all conditions now satisfied, the acquisition of 100% of New Age Minerals' issued capital is moving toward completion. This transaction marks a significant step in broadening Lithium Universe’s footprint beyond lithium chemicals into advanced, sustainable technology solutions.
Pioneering Technology for Circular Energy Solutions
At the heart of this acquisition is MJHT—a novel recycling process designed to address the fast-growing issue of end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) solar panel waste. This technology enables the efficient recovery of high-value materials such as silver, silicon, gallium, and indium, using a microwave-based thermal process. This method offers a cleaner and lower-impact alternative to conventional recycling approaches, aligning with global sustainability goals and circular economy models.
New Age Minerals holds the exclusive commercialisation rights to MJHT through a licensing agreement with Macquarie University. Although a variation to this agreement was initially required due to the change in ownership, all involved parties have agreed to waive this condition, allowing the transaction to advance. The amendment to the license will be formalised after the acquisition's closure.
Strategic Growth Beyond Lithium
This acquisition reinforces Lithium Universe’s ambition to evolve into a vertically integrated clean energy player. While its primary operations focus on lithium conversion and battery supply chain development in North America, this move highlights a deliberate pivot into adjacent technologies that offer strong environmental impact and long-term commercial value.
The addition of MJHT to its portfolio positions Lithium Universe to play a key role in sustainable material recovery—a critical component of the global energy transition. As demand for renewable infrastructure rises, so too does the importance of effective recycling solutions to support its lifecycle.
Lithium Universe's investment in MJHT strengthens its broader vision of clean technology leadership and responsible resource management, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in the renewable energy space.
