Idemitsu Australia, a prominent player in the energy sector, has announced a significant strategic investment in Graphinex Pty Ltd, a private graphite battery anode company.
This investment, made through Idemitsu’s wholly owned subsidiary, Idemitsu Graphite Pty Ltd, is said to highlight the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and supporting the growth of the battery industry.
Graphinex holds a portfolio of exploration tenements near Croydon, in Queensland’s northwest minerals province, including the flagship Esmeralda Graphite Project.
Graphinex Managing Director Art Malone said: “This marks a pivotal moment for Graphinex, as Idemitsu’s strategic investment and support propels us forward in our journey to supply Battery Active Anode Material and Spherical Graphite to global battery manufacturers, empowering the transition towards cleaner energy solutions worldwide.”
Graphinex Chairman Tom Northcott added: “We look forward to working with Idemitsu Australia as Graphinex establishes itself as a leading graphite anode manufacturer and graphite producer from its Flagship Esmeralda Project.”
Idemitsu’s investment will accelerate Graphinex’s exploration and development activities for the Esmeralda Graphite Project — which aims to become a reliable supplier of premium coated battery anode material — catering to the rapidly expanding global battery industry.
Coated battery anode material plays a crucial role in lithium-ion batteries, as the coating forms a stable and passive carbon barrier around the graphite particles, preventing the electrolyte from penetrating the graphite and creating a stable solid-electrolyte interface layer.
This improves first-cycle efficiency and energy density.
Premium coated anode material typically has a higher reversible capacity compared to standard commercial products, with leading producers achieving capacities of around 365 mAh/g, exceeding the industry minimum specification of 350 mAh/g.
As part of the investment, Idemitsu will hold a significant stake in Graphinex and will join the company’s Board of Directors.
Idemitsu Australia Chief Executive Officer Steve Kovac expressed excitement about the investment, as he stated: “We are excited to invest in Graphinex and support their mission to become a key player in the battery materials sector.
“This investment aligns with our strategic focus on supporting sustainable technologies and diversifying our energy portfolio.”
The investment by Idemitsu Australia signifies a strong commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and supporting the global transition to cleaner energy solutions.