Lithium Australia eyes JV with Chinese battery producer

Australia-based Lithium Australia has signed a letter of intent with Chinese battery producer DLG Battery to set up a supply and sales joint venture as well as a technology alliance.

The joint venture is for the supply and sale of DLG lithium-ion batteries, packs and modules in Australia, with the alliance to fast-track the commercialisation of Lithium Australia's patented cathode powders for use in DLG batteries.

The joint venture will also consider developing an Australian battery using joint technology to market domestically and globally and offer a battery recycling solution from Lithium Australia's recycling business unit.

DLG, one of China's largest battery developers and manufacturers, has been working with Lithium Australia to test cathode powders at its pilot plant in Brisbane in Queensland. DLG has six production plants in China, along with sales and support offices in the US and Europe.

Lithium Australia has developed extraction processes to convert lithium silicates, including mine waste, to lithium chemicals. It is also focused on recycling of batteries and electronic waste.