Leliyn Graphite Project Achieves 99.97% Purified Spherical Graphite for EV Batteries
Kingsland Minerals has achieved a major milestone with 99.97% purified spherical graphite from its Leliyn project, positioning itself as a key supplier for EV battery materials. The company is advancing processing optimisation and preparing for a September scoping study.
- 99.97% purified spherical graphite produced using low temperature alkaline bake and acid wash
- Processing optimisation underway to ensure consistent concentrate grade and particle size
- Samples sent to off-take partner Quinbrook for downstream processing assessment
- Leliyn Scoping Study on track for completion in September 2025
- Leliyn hosts a significant inferred mineral resource with potential for EV and renewable energy markets
A Breakthrough in Australian Graphite Purity
Kingsland Minerals Ltd (ASX – KNG) has announced a significant metallurgical achievement at its Leliyn Graphite Project in the Northern Territory, producing purified spherical graphite (PSG) with a remarkable 99.97% purity. This level of purity meets and slightly exceeds the stringent requirements for battery anode material, a critical component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy storage.
The testwork employed conventional processing techniques, notably a low temperature alkaline bake followed by a dilute acid wash, to elevate the graphite concentrate from an initial 93.4% to near-perfect purity. Achieving such high-grade PSG on the first attempt is a promising indicator of Leliyn’s potential to supply premium battery-grade graphite.
Optimising the Path to Commercial Production
Following this success, Kingsland is focusing on refining the entire processing flow-sheet. The goal is to consistently produce graphite concentrate with the ideal grade and particle size tailored for micronising and spheronising, processes that shape graphite flakes into spherical particles suitable for battery anodes. This optimisation is crucial to ensure product quality and scalability.
In parallel, Kingsland’s off-take partner, Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, is evaluating core samples to inform the design of a downstream processing facility planned for Darwin. This collaboration underscores the strategic alignment between resource development and downstream manufacturing, aiming to establish a robust Australian supply chain for battery materials.
Strategic Implications and Upcoming Milestones
The Leliyn project already boasts an inferred mineral resource of nearly 195 million tonnes at 7.3% total graphitic carbon, positioning it among Australia’s most significant graphite deposits. The upcoming scoping study, expected in September 2025, will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the project’s economic and technical viability, incorporating these metallurgical advances.
Beyond graphite, Kingsland is also exploring the potential for gallium by-products, which could add further value. The company’s broader portfolio includes uranium and nickel-lithium prospects, reflecting a diversified approach to future energy minerals.
A Step Forward for Australian Battery Material Sovereignty
As global demand for EVs and renewable energy storage surges, securing reliable, high-quality battery materials is a strategic priority. Kingsland’s progress at Leliyn not only advances its commercial ambitions but also contributes to Australia’s positioning as a critical player in the global battery supply chain. The ability to produce high-purity spherical graphite domestically could reduce reliance on imports and support local manufacturing initiatives.
Bottom Line?
Kingsland’s metallurgical success at Leliyn sets the stage for a pivotal scoping study and strengthens Australia’s foothold in the EV battery supply chain.
Questions in the middle?
- How will Kingsland optimise processing to ensure consistent PSG quality at scale?
- What are the timelines and investment requirements for the proposed Darwin downstream facility?
- How might the potential gallium by-product impact project economics and market positioning?
