Graphite Anode Manufacturers for Lithium-Ion Batteries
graphite anode manufacturers manufacture the electrodes that form the core of Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). A lithium-ion battery contains a negative and positive graphite anode. These batteries are rechargeable and have a higher energy density and capacity compared to other types of batteries. They are used in portable electronics, military and aerospace applications.
During charging, the positive electrode attracts and retains lithium ions. This causes the anode to become more porous and crystalline. It also has better electrical and thermal conductivity.
The graphitization process for anodes has been commercially available since 1940 and is performed in electric graphite furnaces that heat the anode to over 250degC, completing the graphitization process. This is necessary to enhance crystalline properties and improve battery performance.
In the past, natural flake graphite-based anode materials and synthetic graphite were produced primarily in China. However, the Chinese government imposed energy consumption controls on graphitization in 2015 and made it difficult for new operations to be added.
Synthetic graphite is made from heating petroleum coke feedstock in a special furnace to reform the carbon atoms. The resulting product is purified, milled, and sphericalized. It's a high-performance anode material that offers improved cycle performance and uniformity.
Benchmark Mineral Intelligence estimates that the global demand for anode materials will increase to 1.25 million tonnes per annum by 2025. This would be enough to outpace supply.
Fortunately, graphite anode manufacturers are responding to these challenges. For example, Superior Graphite has developed graphite anode materials that have a low surface area, which reduces irreversible loss and increases battery energy density. The firm has already demonstrated the process on lab and pilot scales and is actively seeking partners to add significant manufacturing capacity of these unique graphite anode materials to the Western markets for Li-ion battery production.
