Summary
- ARENA is providing AU$30 million in funding to Livium to commercialize a new process for manufacturing cathode powder for lithium-ion batteries
- Livium plans to build a demonstration plant in Brisbane that can produce as much product per year as is equivalent to 12,500 household batteries or 1,600 EV batteries
- The funding from ARENA covers 50% of the estimated cost to build the demonstration plant and complete two years of operation
- Livium aims to establish a battery recycling facility under its subsidiary, Envirostream, in Perth with the help of government grants
- The Australian federal and state governments are investing in local companies to advance the battery value chain and position Australia as a competitive producer of batteries by 2035
Article
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is providing funding to help Australian companies move up the value chain in battery materials. Livium, a company working on manufacturing cathode powder for lithium-ion batteries, has received a AU$30 million commitment from ARENA. This funding will support the construction of a demonstration plant in Brisbane, which is expected to produce high-quality cathode powder for batteries. Livium aims to lead the way in the circular economy of electrification and battery materials, with a focus on environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Livium, a subsidiary of VSPC (Very Small Particle Company), is working on developing a new process for manufacturing cathode powder. This process combines solid-state and solution-phase synthesis methods to produce high-performance lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) and lithium manganese ferro phosphate (LMFP) powders. ARENA’s support for this project aims to drive advancements in cathode powder manufacturing, leading to cost reductions, quality improvements, reduced waste, and diversification of global battery supply chains. The success of this project could position Australia as a leader in advanced battery manufacturing.
Livium’s Managing Director, Simon Linge, highlights the importance of the cathode as the most expensive part of the battery. VSPC’s technology allows them to produce cathode active material, which is essential for battery production. The project aims to contribute to Australia’s goal of becoming a competitive producer of batteries by 2035. Livium’s commitment goes beyond just producing batteries, as they are also establishing a battery recycling facility under their subsidiary, Envirostream. This facility will focus on collecting, sorting, dismantling, and processing batteries for recycling.
Western Australia has granted Livium’s Envirostream AU$850,000 to build a battery recycling facility as part of the state’s electronic waste infrastructure funding program. This grant aims to support a sustainable battery recycling ecosystem and contribute to a circular economy. Livium’s long-term strategy involves developing battery processing capabilities in other states once minimum collection volumes are met. By fostering local recycling capabilities, Livium hopes to strengthen Australia’s position in the global battery recycling industry.
Both the Australian federal and state governments are actively encouraging local companies to move up the battery value chain through targeted grants and investments. The focus on battery manufacturing and recycling is seen as crucial for Australia’s future economy. Livium’s initiatives align with the government’s plans for developing a competitive battery industry by 2035. With support from government grants and investment, Australia aims to become a key player in the global clean energy transition.
In conclusion, Livium’s efforts to commercialize new processes for battery materials, supported by ARENA and government grants, represent a significant step towards Australia’s goal of becoming a leader in advanced battery manufacturing and recycling. The development of high-quality cathode powder and establishment of recycling facilities are key components of Australia’s strategy for a sustainable and thriving battery industry. By investing in innovative technologies and promoting local manufacturing, Australia is paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
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