Renascor Nears Completion of HF-Free Graphite Purification Plant in Adelaide
Renascor Resources is advancing its government-backed Purified Spherical Graphite demonstration facility in Adelaide, poised to challenge China’s dominance in battery anode materials with an innovative HF-free process.
- Construction of PSG demonstration facility nearing completion
- System verification and hydrotesting well underway
- Facility to showcase HF-free purification process
- Project supported by $5 million Australian Government grant
- Zero lost-time injuries and on-schedule progress
Construction Progress and System Integration
Renascor Resources (ASX – RNU) has reported significant strides in the construction of its Purified Spherical Graphite (PSG) demonstration facility in Adelaide, South Australia. The project, co-funded by the Australian Government, is approaching the final stages of construction with system completion, verification, and hydrotesting activities progressing steadily. All major purification equipment has been installed, and the focus has shifted to integrating and testing the systems to prepare for commissioning.
Process piping installation is largely complete, with remaining tie-ins and final works advancing according to schedule. Mechanical, piping, and electrical works for key components such as the scrubber have been finalized, including successful construction verification and hydrotesting. Importantly, the project maintains a strong safety record with zero lost-time injuries reported.
Innovative HF-Free Purification Process
The demonstration facility is designed to validate Renascor’s proprietary hydrofluoric acid (HF)-free purification process for spherical graphite, a critical material used in lithium-ion battery anodes. This environmentally friendlier method aims to position Renascor as a globally competitive alternative to China’s dominant PSG supply chain, which traditionally relies on HF-based purification methods.
Factory acceptance testing of the control system has been completed, paving the way for staged energisation and commissioning. Hydrotesting of piping systems is well underway, complemented by ongoing electrical and instrumentation works. These steps are crucial to ensuring the facility operates reliably and efficiently once fully commissioned.
Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
Renascor’s vertically integrated Battery Anode Material (BAM) project encompasses the upstream Siviour Graphite Deposit; the world’s second largest proven graphite reserve; and downstream processing facilities. The PSG demonstration plant will convert graphite concentrate from Siviour into purified spherical graphite, supporting the development of a sustainable and competitive supply chain for battery manufacturers.
Backed by a $5 million grant from the Australian Government’s International Partnerships in Critical Minerals Program and a conditionally approved $185 million loan facility from the Critical Minerals Facility, Renascor is well capitalised to advance its BAM project. The company’s Managing Director, David Christensen, emphasised the significance of the demonstration plant in showcasing the practical advantages of their HF-free process and its role in reducing reliance on China for critical battery materials.
Looking ahead, Renascor expects to complete structural, mechanical, and piping installations next month, with overall construction completion anticipated later this quarter. The learnings from this demonstration facility will inform the design and operation of a full-scale commercial PSG plant, marking a pivotal step in Australia’s critical minerals strategy.
Bottom Line?
As Renascor closes in on commissioning, the success of its HF-free purification process could reshape the global graphite supply chain.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the demonstration facility begin commercial operations and production ramp-up?
- How will Renascor’s HF-free process compare economically and environmentally to established methods?
- What partnerships or off-take agreements might emerge following successful demonstration?
