Sparc Hydrogen JV Commits A$2.5M to Pilot Plant; Patent Granted in Morocco

Sparc Hydrogen Moves to Pilot Plant Stage

Sparc Technologies has announced a formal commitment from its joint venture partners to proceed with Stage 2 of the Sparc Hydrogen project, following key milestones achieved in recent months. The joint venture, which includes Sparc Technologies, the University of Adelaide, and Fortescue, is focused on pioneering photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) technology to produce green hydrogen directly from sunlight and water.

Stage 2 will see the construction of a first-of-its-kind pilot plant at the University of Adelaide's Roseworthy site, with completion expected by mid-2025. This facility will enable real-world testing of Sparc's innovative PWS reactors under concentrated solar conditions, a capability not currently available elsewhere globally. The pilot plant aims to advance the technology readiness level from TRL-5 to at least TRL-6, providing critical data on reactor performance, durability, and scalability.

Securing Intellectual Property and Technological Edge

In a significant boost to its technology portfolio, Sparc Hydrogen secured its first patent for the PWS reactor technology in Morocco, with 17 other jurisdictions pending review. The patent protects key innovations in reactor design that leverage the full solar spectrum and concentrated solar radiation to improve hydrogen production efficiency while reducing photocatalyst material requirements.

This patent grant underscores Sparc's leadership in the emerging direct solar-to-hydrogen sector and strengthens its intellectual property position as it moves towards commercialisation. The technology offers a compelling alternative to conventional electrolysis by decoupling hydrogen production from electricity costs and infrastructure, potentially lowering the cost and increasing the flexibility of green hydrogen supply.

Progress in Graphene-Based Additives and Field Trials

Beyond hydrogen, Sparc continues to advance its graphene-based additive, ecosparc®, which enhances anti-corrosive coatings. Field trials with major industry players including Santos at Port Bonython, the South Australian Department of Infrastructure & Transport, and 29Metals Limited are underway. Early results demonstrate significant corrosion resistance improvements, particularly in water-based epoxy coatings, which are gaining traction as environmentally friendly alternatives to solvent-based products.

Sparc's engagement with five of the world's eight largest protective coatings companies highlights growing market interest in graphene-enhanced materials. The company’s extensive dataset and manufacturing capabilities position it well to capitalize on the expanding global anti-corrosion coatings market, estimated to reach US$43 billion by 2029.

Corporate Developments and Financial Position

On the corporate front, Sparc Technologies appointed Simon Kidston, founder of Genex Power Ltd, as a Non-Executive Director, bringing valuable experience in renewable energy ventures. The company reported a cash balance of A$2.02 million as of 31 December 2024, bolstered by a A$1.12 million R&D tax rebate received during the quarter. Cash expenditure remained in line with expectations, supporting ongoing R&D and pilot plant development activities.

Looking ahead, Sparc’s ability to execute on its pilot plant construction and successfully commercialize its graphene additives will be critical to sustaining investor confidence and unlocking further value.