International Graphite Limited has secured key approvals and funding to progress its Collie Micronising Facility and European Expandable Graphite Project, positioning itself as a major supplier outside China.
- Development approval and land secured for Collie Micronising Facility
- Techno-economic evaluation supports European Expandable Graphite Project viability
- Letter of Intent signed with Italian chemical producer ALKEEMIA for graphite purification
- Pilot battery anode carbon coating trials commenced with University of Melbourne partner
- Up to $3 million in working capital investment secured, including government grants
Progress at Collie Micronising Facility
International Graphite Limited (ASX – IG6) is making significant strides in establishing its Collie Micronising Facility in Western Australia. The company has secured development approval from the Shire of Collie and completed settlement on three adjoining lots totaling approximately 6,000 square metres in the Collie Light Industrial Area. This site, located opposite its existing R&D and qualification plant, is set to become Australia's first commercial-scale micronised graphite production facility, targeting industrial, defence, and advanced manufacturing markets with production expected to commence in 2027.
With deposits paid for the initial micronising equipment and power supply arrangements confirmed by Western Power, International Graphite is well-positioned to advance construction. The project has also garnered substantial support from the Western Australian Government, recognising its potential to boost local manufacturing capabilities and contribute to regional economic transformation.
European Expandable Graphite Project Gains Momentum
On the international front, International Graphite is progressing its European Expandable Graphite Project through a planned 50 – 50 joint venture with Arctic Graphite AS, a company backed by Norwegian mining giant LNS. The facility aims to produce around 4,200 tonnes per year of expandable graphite, a material widely used for fire retardance and thermal insulation, with production targeted for the latter half of 2027.
Crucially, the company secured access to proven processing intellectual property and technology under a licensing agreement, enabling it to conduct feasibility studies and prepare for commercial operations. A recent techno-economic evaluation highlights a low capital expenditure of approximately A$11.2 million for the facility, with strong financial forecasts including a pre-tax internal rate of return of 66% and a net present value of nearly A$58 million over 25 years.
Strategic Partnerships and Product Development
International Graphite has also signed a non-binding Letter of Intent with Italian chemical specialist ALKEEMIA SpA to access toll-treatment graphite purification services. ALKEEMIA’s plant, commencing operations in early 2026, will initially offer up to 50% of its 200 tonnes per year capacity to International Graphite, with plans to scale to 20,000 tonnes annually by 2030. This partnership is critical for producing high-purity graphite products essential for battery anode materials and other advanced applications.
In parallel, the company has initiated pilot-scale carbon coating trials in collaboration with CarboPhite Pty Ltd and the University of Melbourne. This program aims to validate new coating technologies that could enhance the performance of Australian-made battery anode materials, a key component in lithium-ion batteries.
Financial Position and Corporate Developments
International Graphite reported cash on hand of A$1.4 million at the end of December 2025, supported by working capital investments of up to A$3 million secured through institutional funding and government grants. Notably, the company received approximately A$1.4 million from Western Australian Government grants and has an investment agreement with US-based Pioneer Resource Partners LLC providing up to A$3 million in funding.
Adding to its leadership strength, graphite industry expert Aidan Nania was appointed Executive Director in early January 2026. Mr Nania brings extensive experience across the graphite value chain and European markets, having been involved with Arctic Graphite AS and Skaland Graphite AS, Europe’s largest natural flake graphite producer.
Looking ahead, International Graphite is planning further resource and exploration drilling at its Springdale Graphite Project in Western Australia, which is expected to supply feedstock for its processing facilities.
Bottom Line?
With construction underway and strategic partnerships solidified, International Graphite is poised to reshape the graphite supply landscape beyond China.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the Collie Micronising Facility meet its 2027 production start target without delays?
- How will the European joint venture navigate supply chain and regulatory challenges?
- What impact will the pilot battery anode coating trials have on commercial scalability?