Zentek hits 5N graphite purity, meets nuclear specs

Executive Summary

• Albany Graphite Corp., a Zentek subsidiary, achieved a second‑batch ultrahigh‑purity (5N, 99.9992 wt.% C) graphite product using AETC’s electrothermal Fluidized Bed Reactor (FBR).
• The material’s calculated Equivalent Boron Concentration (EBC) is 2.60 ppm, below the ≤3 ppm nuclear‑industry specification, indicating suitability for reactor‑grade applications.
• Ongoing testing will evaluate particle size distribution, compressibility, resistivity, coefficient of friction and production of near‑net‑shaped graphite bricks for nuclear reactor linings; parallel lithium‑ion battery suitability work is also under way.

Key Details

• Purification Result: 5N purity (99.9992 wt.% C) achieved on a second batch of Albany graphite flotation concentrate.
• EBC Measurement: 2.60 ppm (industry spec ≤3 ppm). Determined per ASTM C1233‑15 and customized for current nuclear plant requirements.
• Process Conditions: Batch‑scale electrothermal FBR at 2,800 °C in an inert atmosphere; no halogen gases used. Facility located in Wheeling, Illinois (AETC).
• Reproducibility Claim: Consistent results across batches suggest the FBR process can reliably produce nuclear‑grade graphite.
• Downstream Testing Planned:
• Air‑jet sieve yield – target particle size distribution and D50.
• Compressibility – high compact density, low elastic expansion.
• Four‑point resistivity – low values indicating high graphitization for pebble‑bed reactors.
• Coefficient of friction (CoF) – low CoF desirable for lubrication in nuclear settings.
• Prototype Production: Near‑net‑shaped graphite bricks to be fabricated from a blend of synthetic graphite, ultrahigh‑purity Albany graphite and coal‑tar pitch; properties will be characterized against nuclear specifications.
• Battery‑Grade Testing:
• Spheroidization, coating, and coin‑cell electrochemical tests for anode suitability.
• Fines to be evaluated as cathode conductivity additives.
• Strategic Context: Results align with increased nuclear investment in Ontario (SMR at Darlington) and broader North American emphasis on domestic nuclear capacity.
• Quotes:
• Emily Schmidt (AETC): Emphasized excitement over halogen‑free purification achieving both 5N purity and sub‑spec EBC.
• Eric Wallman (Zentek Board Chair): Highlighted the milestone’s significance for Albany project valuation, graphite industry potential, and Zentek’s innovation commitment.
• Technical Approval: Peter Wood, PEng, PGeo, VP Development of AGC, NI 43‑101 qualified person, approved all technical information in the release.

Notable Quotes

“AETC is very excited about the successful confirmation that Albany graphite material can be upgraded to nuclear purity graphite without the use of halogen gas in processing.” – Emily Schmidt, Project Manager, AETC

“The ability to consistently reach ultrahigh‑purity and meet strict nuclear specifications is a promising sign for both the graphite industry and the potential value of the Albany deposit.” – Eric Wallman, Board Chair, Zentek Ltd.