Nouveau Monde Graphite says its R&D team, working with McGill University, has developed a bio-based coating for anode material that could replace the standard petroleum pitch coating. The company estimates the switch would cut direct Scope 1 emissions by 130 kg of CO2e per tonne of coated spherical purified graphite, though that figure does not yet include a full lifecycle assessment. Lab tests reportedly show equivalent performance on capacity, first-cycle efficiency, and fast charging, and a patent application has been filed. Next steps are long-term cycling tests, testing other material types, and a validation campaign on industrial-scale equipment. NMG also holds commercial exclusivity on any future use of the technology. The process is meant to support the company's vertically integrated natural graphite plans in Quebec, with construction underway at Matawinie and a final investment decision for the Bécancour plant expected in the coming months.
