Lincoln Minerals Limited Achieves 99.97% Battery-Grade Graphite Purity at Kookaburra, Unleashing Clean, Cost-Effective Lithium-Ion Anode Potential

Thursday, May 22, 2025
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Lincoln Minerals Limited has confirmed its Kookaburra Graphite Project produces battery-grade graphite (99.97% purity) suitable for lithium-ion battery anodes—achieved without using hazardous hydrofluoric acid. This breakthrough enhances safety, reduces costs, and boosts downstream potential in Australia’s evolving battery materials supply chain.

Lincoln Minerals Limited recently detailed breakthrough test results from its Kookaburra Graphite Project in South Australia, demonstrating the production of battery-grade graphite with total graphitic carbon (TGC) levels exceeding 99.95% and peaking at 99.97% in multiple independent tests. This achievement was confirmed by two separate laboratories, which analyzed samples processed through a series of micronisation, classification, and spheronisation steps. Significantly, these high-purity results were attained without the use of hydrofluoric acid, a practice that enhances safety, reduces environmental risk, and lowers associated processing costs. The technical data underlying this development are compelling. Samples with an average grade of approximately 9.4 to 9.92% TGC were processed and then subjected to rigorous analysis, including advanced techniques such as XRF and ICP testing. The test work not only exceeded the strict industry benchmark for lithium-ion battery anode materials but also paves the way for further optimization efforts. Upcoming phases will focus on refining the purification process and evaluating key performance metrics like Loss on Ignition, tap density, BET surface area, particle size distribution, and overall yield. These metrics, along with SEM imagery illustrating the upgrade stages, underscore the high-quality output that could prove crucial for downstream applications. The results also align closely with strategic initiatives at both the national and state levels in Australia. They support the objectives set out in Australia’s National Battery Strategy while complementing regional efforts aimed at advancing green energy and clean technology initiatives. Lincoln Minerals Limited is thus well positioned to leverage these findings not only for the production of premium Purified Spheronised Graphite for battery anodes but also for developing a variety of value-added graphite-based products for global markets. Investor sentiment following this announcement is mixed. On the bullish side, the company’s ability to deliver exceptional battery-grade graphite using a safer, HF-free process signals significant cost savings, environmental benefits, and competitive advantages. These factors, combined with strong alignment with government initiatives and potential downstream revenue streams, bolster long-term growth prospects. However, from a bearish perspective, uncertainties remain regarding the scalability of this process and the risks associated with transitioning from pilot-scale tests to full industrial production. Any setbacks in further optimization or delays in regulatory approvals could temper investor enthusiasm in the near term.

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