February 2, 2023: US graphite processor Urbix goals to supply anode supplies for SK On’s EV batteries beneath an settlement introduced on January 18.
South Korea-based SK On stated the transfer would assist it achieve a foothold within the US anode materials provide chain and reap the benefits of incentives beneath the Inflation Discount Act – with SK On probably buying Urbix supplies for at its US battery manufacturing vegetation.
The joint improvement settlement may additionally increase SK On’s provide chain choices, the place China accounts for 85% of the worldwide manufacturing capability for anodes in response to information printed by the Worldwide Power Company on final 12 months, the battery producer.
Underneath the settlement, the 2 corporations will work collectively to develop environmentally accountable, high-performance anode supplies tailor-made for SK On batteries.
Arizona-based Urbix has accomplished development and commissioning of its business scale demonstration plant with a 1,000-tonne/yr capability and it plans to increase its manufacturing capability to twenty-eight,500 tonnes/yr by 2025.
Urbix claims to course of graphite utilizing progressive environmentally accountable strategies and recycle 70% of chemical substances with out utilizing hydrofluoric acid and hydrogen chloride within the refining course of.
SK On continues to strengthen its provide chain for key battery supplies. To create a steady provide of lithium, the corporate signed offers with Chile’s SQM and Australia’s Lake Assets and International Lithium Assets final 12 months.
SK On was launched as an impartial firm in October 2021 after SK Innovation determined to separate its battery enterprise unit.
Picture: Urbix workers monitor graphite processing methods on the firm’s pilot facility in Arizona
