Zentek sees near-theoretical anode results at Albany

Executive Summary

• Zentek Ltd.'s subsidiary, Albany Graphite Corp. (AGC), achieved near-theoretical anode performance in independent lithium-ion battery testing using ultrahigh-purity Albany graphite.
• The material demonstrated strong cycling stability and efficient processing, positioning it as a high-performance natural graphite anode candidate for the North American battery supply chain.
• The results support Zentek's strategy to build a value-added position in the battery sector, with potential for improved energy density and reliability for battery manufacturers.

Key Details

• Anode Performance: Carbon-coated, spheroidized Albany graphite delivered an average reversible capacity of approximately 367 mAh/g (specifically 367.35 mAh/g) in industry-standard coin cell tests.
• Theoretical Efficiency: This capacity is within approximately 1.3% of the theoretical maximum for natural graphite (372 mAh/g).
• Cycling Stability: The material showed stable performance over approximately 110 cycles as a conductive additive and 110 to 120 cycles as the main anode active material, with no cell failures.
• Capacity Retention: Average capacity retention was above 94% versus the Li/Li+ counter electrode, with irreversible capacity loss between approximately 7.0% and 8.3%.
• Byproduct Utilization: High-purity spheroidization process rejects were successfully blended 50/50 with NMC622 cathode active material as a conductive additive, delivering performance comparable to industry benchmarks.
• Testing Conditions: Tests were conducted at a C/10 charge/discharge rate and at electrode loadings near 10 milligrams/square centimetre.
• Strategic Impact: The results suggest Albany graphite could offer the long-term stability of synthetic graphite while maintaining the near-theoretical capacity of natural graphite, enhancing economic value and sustainability through maximized yield.

Notable Quotes

• "We are extremely pleased with these independent results. Achieving near-theoretical performance under industry standard conditions is a testament to the quality of the Albany material. These results strengthen our value proposition for battery manufacturers seeking high performance, sustainable graphite solutions." — Mohammed (Moe) Jiwan, CEO of Zentek