Renascor Secures Site and Exceeds Graphite Quality Targets Ahead of 2025 Commissioning
Renascor Resources has marked significant progress in its Purified Spherical Graphite (PSG) demonstration plant development, securing a site and completing initial production runs ahead of commissioning in late 2025.
- Secured 1,250m² industrial site near Adelaide for PSG demonstration plant
- Completed first graphite concentrate production run exceeding quality targets
- Engineering design finalized; procurement of long-lead equipment underway
- Received initial $750,000 tranche of $5 million Australian Government grant
- Commissioning expected to begin in Q3 2025, pending equipment delivery
Strategic Site Secured for Demonstration Plant
Renascor Resources (ASX: RNU) has taken a decisive step forward in its vertically integrated Battery Anode Material (BAM) project by securing a 1,250 square metre industrial warehouse north of Adelaide, South Australia. This site will house the Purified Spherical Graphite (PSG) demonstration facility and is strategically located adjacent to an operational commercial laboratory and analytical services hub. The proximity to Bolivar, where Renascor plans its full-scale commercial PSG plant, underscores the company’s commitment to developing a robust local supply chain for battery anode materials.
Exceeding Quality Benchmarks in Graphite Concentrate Production
In preparation for the demonstration plant, Renascor completed its first graphite concentrate production run from the recently collected Siviour bulk sample. The results were notable, with a graphite concentrate grade of 97.1% total carbon and a recovery rate of 96.0%, both surpassing the targets set in the Siviour Battery Anode Material Definitive Feasibility Study. This high-quality concentrate will serve as the feedstock for the PSG demonstration facility, reinforcing confidence in the upstream mining and processing operations.
Engineering Progress and Equipment Procurement
Engineering design for the demonstration plant is well advanced, incorporating successful purification equipment trials completed in 2024. These trials validated Renascor’s eco-friendly, hydrofluoric acid-free purification technology, achieving lithium-ion battery-grade graphite purity levels up to 99.99% total carbon, exceeding industry standards. With the process flowsheet updated to reflect selected equipment specifications, Renascor has commenced tendering for long-lead items, including a prefabricated water treatment module, critical for the plant’s environmental compliance and operational efficiency.
Government Support and Project Timeline
The project benefits from a $5 million grant under the Australian Government’s International Partnerships in Critical Minerals Program, with Renascor having received the initial $750,000 payment. This funding underscores the strategic importance of developing a sovereign Australian supply of purified spherical graphite, a material currently dominated by Chinese producers. Subject to timely delivery of overseas equipment, Renascor anticipates commencing commissioning of the demonstration plant’s water treatment circuit in Q3 2025, with full-scale commissioning targeted for Q4 2025.
Positioning in the Global Battery Supply Chain
Renascor’s integrated approach, from mining the Siviour Graphite Deposit, one of the world’s largest proven reserves, through to downstream PSG production, positions the company as a potential key supplier in the rapidly expanding lithium-ion battery market. By advancing its HF-free purification technology and localising production, Renascor aims to offer a competitive, environmentally responsible alternative to existing supply chains heavily reliant on China. This development aligns with broader ESG objectives and the global push for secure, sustainable critical mineral supply chains.
Bottom Line?
Renascor’s PSG demonstration plant milestones set the stage for a critical new chapter in Australia’s battery materials sovereignty.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Renascor secure timely delivery of overseas equipment to meet the Q3 2025 commissioning target?
- How will Renascor’s HF-free purification technology scale in the transition from demonstration to full commercial production?
- What are the implications for Renascor’s market positioning amid increasing global demand and supply chain diversification efforts?
