VSPC gains patent protection over cathode powders

Technology development group VSPC has been granted an Australian patent over the production of nickel and cobalt-free battery powders.

The company, a subsidiary of Lithium Australia, covers how the products are manufactured as well as what they are made for.

The company said: “VSPC’s nanotechnology processes are simpler, cheaper and more energy-efficient, and deliver products more consistent in quality than those of competitors.

“(This means) VSPC is well positioned to cater for forecast growth in the rapidly expanding global market for phosphate-based battery cathode materials, lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) in particular.”

VSPC has spend two decades developing its nanotechnology processes and 14 years researching materials for lithium ion batteries.

The company said it had now reached a point where its technology offered the potential for significant reductions in production costs.

Lithium Australia managing director Adrian Griffin said: “The grant of a patent for this most recent processes enhances VSPC’s application of previously granted intellectual property to specific types of cathode powders.

“Initial patents, which cover VSPC’s ability to create very small particles, have since been applied to the fastest growing sector in the battery industry – LFP-type LIBs.”

Picture: VSPC pilot plant, Wacol Queensland

Subscribe to our free @AuManufacturing newsletter here.