Australia’s First 20-Micron Lithium Foil Produced by Li-S Energy in Geelong
Li-S Energy has completed Australia’s inaugural lithium foil production line, marking a key step in domestic battery material manufacturing and opening export opportunities.
- Installation of lithium foil roller and laminator completes Australia’s first lithium foil line
- Production of high-quality 20-micron lithium foils and lithium-coated copper laminates
- Enhancement underway to apply proprietary nanomaterial coatings at scale
- Strengthens Australia’s sovereign supply chain for critical battery materials
- Export potential to international battery developers and research institutions
A Milestone in Australian Battery Manufacturing
Li-S Energy Limited (ASX – LIS) has announced the completion of Australia’s first lithium foil production line at its Geelong facility, a significant achievement in the nation’s push for sovereign battery material capabilities. The installation of a lithium foil roller and laminator complements the lithium extruder unveiled earlier this year, enabling the production of ultra-thin 20-micron lithium foils, about one-fifth the thickness of a human hair.
This development is more than a technical feat; it represents a strategic leap forward in securing Australia’s supply chain for critical battery components. Lithium foil is essential for lithium sulfur and lithium metal batteries, which promise higher energy densities than conventional lithium-ion cells. By producing these foils domestically, Li-S Energy reduces reliance on foreign suppliers, ensuring quality control and supply security for its own battery cell manufacturing.
From Foil to Finished Battery Cells
The new production line not only manufactures lithium foils but also lithium-coated copper laminate foils, which are vital for battery anode construction. Li-S Energy plans to supply these materials both internally and to international customers, including research institutions and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). This positions the company as a potential exporter of high-value battery materials, tapping into growing global demand for advanced energy storage solutions.
Looking ahead, Li-S Energy is enhancing the line to automate the coating of its proprietary Li-Nanomesh™ nanomaterial composites onto the lithium foils. This innovation aims to improve battery performance, safety, and cycle life, key factors for applications in aviation, drones, and defence where weight and energy density are critical.
Backing and Vision
The project received a $1.78 million grant from the Industry Growth Program, underscoring government support for developing sovereign manufacturing capabilities in strategic sectors. Dr Steve Rowlands, Chief Technology Officer, highlighted the importance of precise thickness control in pushing energy density and accelerating scalable manufacturing. Meanwhile, CEO Dr Lee Finniear emphasized the broader significance for Australia, noting the opportunity to supply premium lithium foils to global battery developers and R&D programs.
As the battery materials landscape evolves rapidly, Li-S Energy’s milestone signals Australia’s emergence as a player in the high-tech supply chain for next-generation batteries. The company’s focus on proprietary nanomaterials and sovereign production capabilities could provide a competitive edge in a market increasingly sensitive to supply security and performance innovation.
Bottom Line?
Li-S Energy’s lithium foil line sets the stage for Australia’s deeper role in advanced battery supply chains and export markets.
Questions in the middle?
- When will Li-S Energy begin commercial sales of lithium-coated foils to international customers?
- How quickly can the company scale up its proprietary nanomaterial coating process at production volumes?
- What partnerships or contracts might emerge to leverage Australia’s new sovereign battery material capability?
