Focus Graphite, developer of high-grade flake graphite deposits and next-generation lithium-ion battery technology, has appointed Dr Sunho Kang as strategic advisor, Battery Technology and Materials.
The announcement follows Focus’s conditional $14.1 million funding from Natural Resources Canada under the Global Partnership Initiative, supporting Canada’s first chemical-free electro-thermal graphite purification demonstration plant. Dr Kang’s expertise aligns with the company’s strategy to commercialise high-purity, battery-grade materials from its Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca deposits.
Dr Kang is a globally respected battery scientist and executive with 26 years of experience across leading research institutions, national laboratories and global battery and EV manufacturers. His career includes lithium-ion cell engineering, silicon-anode development, cathode innovation, dry-electrode manufacturing, and root-cause failure analysis.
In his role at Focus, Dr Kang will guide lithium-ion battery technologies, advising on material selection, cell design, and performance optimisation. He will support the development of battery-grade graphite and silicon composites, contribute to high-energy-density cell R&D for dual-use defence and civilian applications, and oversee battery-testing infrastructure. His remit also includes identifying collaborations, contributing to IP and patent strategy, supplier-ecosystem development, and due diligence for funding and partnerships.
“At Focus, we are committed to bringing in industry leaders who have delivered at the highest levels,” said Jason Latkowcer, Vice President of Corporate Development. “Dr Kang’s appointment significantly strengthens our downstream integration strategy and adds deep technical credibility to our purification and battery-materials programmes.”
“Focus Graphite’s deposits and chemical-free purification process have strong potential for next-generation anode materials,” said Dr Kang. “Strengthening a secure North American graphite supply chain is essential for advanced energy storage, particularly in defence and automotive applications.”
