EcoGraf Secures Key Australian Patent, Slashes Battery Anode Costs by 25%

Patent Milestone Strengthens EcoGraf’s IP Portfolio

EcoGraf Limited has achieved a significant intellectual property milestone with the granting of its first Australian patent for the EcoGraf HFfree® purification technology. This patent, which will remain in force until 2041, covers a broad range of applications including the manufacture of battery anode materials, high purity graphite products, and the recycling of lithium-ion battery anodes. The patent follows the resolution of two oppositions, underscoring the robustness of EcoGraf’s proprietary technology.

This development builds on a previous patent granted in May 2025, further solidifying EcoGraf’s protection over its innovative purification flowsheet. The company’s HFfree technology is a cornerstone of its vertically integrated battery anode materials business, which aims to deliver environmentally sustainable and cost-effective graphite products.

Cost Breakthrough Enhances Commercial Viability

Just days before the patent announcement, EcoGraf revealed a breakthrough in process optimisation that has reduced purification costs by 25%. This improvement positions the company’s purification facility as one of the lowest-cost producers of high purity battery anode material globally. The financial impact is significant, with a stage 1 net present value (NPV) of US$282 million (A$433 million) for the planned commercial scale purification facility.

EcoGraf’s strategy involves locating purification facilities close to key battery manufacturing hubs in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. This approach aims to support localised demand outside of China and reduce supply chain risks for customers seeking environmentally superior graphite products.

Global Expansion and Government Support

Beyond Australia, EcoGraf has filed patent applications in multiple jurisdictions including the European Union, South Korea, Malaysia, and Vietnam. The company has already secured patents in the US, South Africa, and the East African Federation, which includes Tanzania, Mozambique, and Namibia. This global IP footprint is critical as EcoGraf advances its commercial ambitions.

The Australian Government’s support through the Critical Minerals Development Program has been instrumental in co-funding EcoGraf’s Product Qualification Facility (PQF) program. This initiative is a key step toward securing offtake agreements with prospective customers who are increasingly interested in sustainable battery anode materials.

Vertically Integrated Supply Chain Focused on Sustainability

EcoGraf’s vertically integrated model encompasses the Epanko Graphite Project in Tanzania, a mechanical shaping facility, and HFfree purification plants. The company’s technology eliminates the use of hydrofluoric acid (HF), a hazardous chemical traditionally used in graphite purification, thereby reducing environmental impact and improving safety.

Additionally, EcoGraf is pioneering battery anode recycling using its HFfree purification process, offering customers a pathway to lower CO2 emissions and reduced battery costs. This positions EcoGraf not only as a supplier but as a partner in advancing sustainable battery supply chains.