Image: OrbiaThe multi-phase project is currently in the planning stage and is expected to begin in early 2026. Installation and initial product output are anticipated in late 2026.According to Orbia, the project will establish a graphite recycling capability in the UK and help reduce dependence on overseas supply chains. The company noted that China currently supplies around 95% of global graphite production. The pilot facility will initially process kilogram-scale batches to demonstrate the technical and commercial viability of graphite recovery before a future industrial-scale plant is considered.The funding comes through the UK Government’s £4 billion DRIVE35 programme, delivered by the Department for Business and Trade in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) and Innovate UK.Orbia also operates battery materials R&D activities in the UK through its technology centre in Thornton, Chester, which focuses on electrolyte and solvent system development, lithium-ion battery prototyping and inorganic materials research.“This investment marks a significant milestone in enabling a huge step toward building a domestic, circular supply chain for battery materials and supporting the UK’s transition to a more sustainable, zero-emission future,” said John Jaddou, Global Director of New Business Development at Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials. He added that Orbia aims to demonstrate ‘that graphite recovery can be both technically robust and commercially feasible, laying the groundwork for a future industrial scale facility.’Information via e-mail
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