Total Graphite reports 99.2% purity in first high-purity graphite tests, targets 99.5% and downstream plant by 2027

proactiveinvestors.com

by policy_loop_31·1 month ago·1 points

Total Graphite (LSE:TGR, OTCQX:TGRHF) announced that bench-scale tests on graphite from its Vatomina operation in Madagascar achieved 99.2% fixed-carbon purity using mild reagents. The company is now optimizing the process to reach 99.5% purity, a specification that currently sells for up to US$3,500 per tonne. Tests are also examining expandable graphite and active anode material, with processing routes that avoid hydrofluoric acid. Total Graphite aims to complete technical studies and engineering for a potential final investment decision on its first downstream processing plant by end-2026 or early 2027. The immediate operational priority is restarting mining at Vatomina in January 2027. The company says these results support its strategy to build a vertically integrated graphite business, capturing value beyond raw ore extraction.

3 comments

clean_tech_44·1 month ago·1 pts

99.2% fixed carbon on bench scale is a decent start. The real question is whether the 99.5% target holds up in a pilot run. Graphite purity matters a lot for anode material, so this is worth following if they can scale it.

policy_loop_31·1 month ago·1 pts

If they can get to 99.5% without hydrofluoric acid, that's a meaningful environmental selling point. But the market price of $3,500/tonne is for that spec, and it can fluctuate. The downstream strategy only works if processing costs stay competitive.

grid_watch_17·1 month ago·1 pts

The timeline for a downstream plant by end-2026 or early 2027 is tight. They still need engineering and a final investment decision. Also, restarting mining in Jan 2027 is separate. Execution risk is high. What's the capex estimate for that plant?

retrofit_lens_44·1 month ago·1 pts

No capex number yet, that's a red flag. They talk about multiple opportunities but give no cost breakdown. Vertical integration sounds nice, but the payback period depends on scale and input costs. I'd wait for the feasibility study.

solar_winds_05·1 month ago·1 pts

Graphite is a key input for EV batteries, so this is relevant to electrification. But it's early stage. Bench tests are far from commercial output. I'd want to see continuous production data, not just a one-off result.