In extensive laboratory tests of anode graphite material in the USA, natural Lac Knife graphite from Focus Graphite has achieved stunning results. The value 371mAh/g is very close to the theoretical maximum discharge capacity of graphite.
The Phase I battery validation tests were conducted by two concurrent, independent US laboratories, Charge CCCV LLC (C4V) and American Energy Technologies Company (AETC). The testing was conducted using material refined at AETC under Focus’s direction. AETC performed control testing, while C4V carried out independent validation. Despite minor variations inherent to coin-cell assembly and laboratory calibration, both laboratories confirmed that Focus’s Lac Knife material exceeded internal baseline qualification thresholds.
“These results validate the quality of our Lac Knife graphite and its suitability for next-generation anode production,” said Dean Hanisch, CEO of Focus Graphite. “Having both AETC and C4V confirm the material’s strong performance gives us confidence as we move into pouch cell testing – the next step toward commercial readiness.”
Although electrode density and long-cycle performance were modestly lower than the baseline, the material surpassed C4V’s qualification benchmarks, confirming its readiness for pouch-cell validation. This means Phase II of the qualification programme. Next steps are pouch-cell fabrication and large-format validation for commercial-scale evaluation.
“C4V is pleased to see Focus’s Lac Knife material successfully complete our Phase 1 validation process under our DDNA programme,” said Baasit Ali, VP Supply Chain at C4V. “The material has demonstrated strong electrochemical validation and purity characteristics that align well with our high-performance anode requirements. The next step will provide a clearer picture of its scalability for EV and ESS applications.”
Focus said that collaboration with C4V and AETC supports the energy transition and critical minerals independence objectives shared by both Canada and its allies for both civil and defence purposes.
Image: Dean Hanisch, CEO of Focus Graphite
