Australia’s national science agency CSIRO has inked a joint development agreement with Panasonic Energy Co (TYO:6752) to develop nickel laterite processing technologies for lithium-ion battery applications.
Through the collaboration, Panasonic Energy and CSIRO are laying the groundwork for the future utilisation of Australian nickel laterite resources and the creation of a low-cost, low-environmental impact raw material and supply chain.
The joint development leverages CSIRO’s expertise in mineral processing and Panasonic Energy’s extensive knowledge of battery materials. The goal is to strengthen Australia’s nickel industry and secure high-quality nickel resources to meet the global demands of future battery production.
Leveraging its location in resource-rich Australia, the CSIRO plays a leading role in the research and technological development related to minerals. It is engaged in a wide range of research areas including agriculture, the environment, information technology, healthcare, materials, manufacturing, minerals, and energy.
In the current global market, while countries like Indonesia lead in nickel production, Australia boasts the world’s second-largest reserves of the mineral.
Given its significant lateritic reserves and the growing global demand for lithium-ion batteries, Panasonic Energy says Australia has the potential to become a key player in producing nickel, a crucial cathode material especially for high-capacity batteries, using eco-friendly processes.
“Panasonic Energy is committed to fostering collaborations like this one with CSIRO, driving advancements in the global lithium-ion battery industry, and ultimately contributing to a more sustainable society,” the company says.
Established in April 2022 as part of the Panasonic Group’s switch to an operating company system, Panasonic Energy Co provides innovative battery technology-based products and solutions globally.
Through its automotive lithium-ion batteries, storage battery systems and dry batteries, the company focuses on delivering power to a broad range of business areas, from mobility and social infrastructure to medical and consumer products.
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: CSIRO & Panasonic
