Monday 24 January 2022

Albemarle and 6K ink deal to develop novel lithium battery materials

Albermarle has signed a joint development agreement with 6K for the development of novel lithium battery materials.

They will explore the use of 6K's UniMelt advanced, sustainable materials production platform to develop the battery materials “through potentially disruptive manufacturing processes”.

According to the company, if a conventional 16GWh battery cathode production plant was converted using 6K's UniMelt platform, it would reduce carbon emissions by 70%, lower water consumption by 90% and cut wastewater production by 100% while requiring a 50% smaller factory footprint.

Glen Merfeld, Chief Technical Officer for Albemarle Lithium said: “Albemarle is developing advanced lithium materials to enable breakthrough levels of lithium-ion battery performance. The UniMelt plasma technology opens new reaction pathways for lithium material innovation. Our collaboration with 6K has significant potential.

"6Ktechnology creates the opportunity for modular manufacturing allowing for a smaller footprint, faster construction and new models for localisation. The collaboration sets a strong foundation not only for advanced material development but also for future commercialization.”