Graphite Anode Suppliers
graphite anode suppliers use either natural or synthetic graphite to make electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. The companies need to have reliable sources of graphite that meet end-user specifications and are cost effective.
Natural graphite is sourced from mines, while synthetic graphite is manufactured by heating petroleum coke feedstock in a special furnace. The process is energy intensive, notes Battery Power Online.
China produces nearly two-thirds of the world’s natural graphite and half its needle coke (a coal byproduct) used in the production of artificial graphite or “graphite pencils.” The country also produces 90% of the world’s graphite anode supplies. This gives it a powerful position in the EV lithium-ion battery market, which is expected to expand by 220% to 2030.
With prices of natural graphite rising relative to synthetic material, original equipment manufacturers are likely to seek waivers on tariffs and seek diversified suppliers of the mineral to reduce dependence on China. Australia-based producer Syrah Resources has already secured offtake agreements with Tesla for natural graphite anode active material.
A US company is trying to develop a low-cost alternative to natural graphite for Li-ion batteries. Magnis Graphite is developing a graphite anode that uses wood waste to produce the active material needed for the agglomerated clump of silicon and nickel that makes up the Li-ion battery cathode. Using biomass instead of petroleum coke would be more economical and environmentally friendly. The company says it has the right infrastructure in place, including a pilot plant. Magnis’ anode product is being qualified by several potential EV battery producers, according to the company.
