Nexeon, a leader in next-generation silicon anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, has announced a major step forward with the groundbreaking of its first commercial production facility. This milestone positions the company to deliver on its commitment to supply high-performance, cost-effective silicon anode material at commercial volumes starting in 2025.

Construction has officially begun on Nexeon’s first commercial-scale silicon anode material plant. Accordingly, the company is on track to deliver silicon anode material starting in 2025. This fulfills the previously announced binding supply agreement with Panasonic.

Also, the production facility in Gunsan, South Korea, sits adjacent to the facilities of OCI Company Ltd., enabling a “fenceline” supply of silane, a critical raw material. This co-located site with OCI enables capital-efficient scaling for both companies, ensuring delivery of low-cost, superior silicon anode materials. By 2030, the new facility will have the capacity to produce significant volumes of material annually. This would allow Nexeon to supply its pipeline of global customers.

Delivering on the Promise of Silicon Anode Technology

Nexeon’s silicon anode materials significantly increase the energy density of lithium-ion batteries. It is a key factor in extending the range and improving charging performance of electric vehicles. Particularly, the company’s second-generation “drop-in” technology allows battery manufacturers to easily integrate higher silicon content into their existing production processes without requiring additional capital expenditure.

“Breaking ground on our first commercial production facility is the culmination of many years of dedication and technical accomplishments by the Nexeon team. It marks a key moment in our growth and reflects the commercial interest customers have shown in our technology,” said Scott Brown, CEO of Nexeon. “By beginning construction on our first commercial production site, we are on track to deliver the game-changing benefits of silicon anode materials to the global battery market.”

A Strategic Partnership for Future Growth

The exclusive partnership with OCI, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of silane outside of China, provides a secure and cost-effective supply of a key material for Nexeon. The dedicated pipeline for silane delivery streamlines production and minimizes transportation costs – while aligning with Nexeon’s sustainability mission. Additionally, OCI can scale production alongside Nexeon. This would ensure a reliable supply of raw materials far into the future to meet growing market demands.

“We are thrilled to partner with Nexeon in this endeavour,” said Yoo-Shin Kim, President (CEO) of OCI. “This collaboration leverages the strengths of both companies, combining OCI’s expertise in advanced materials with Nexeon’s leading silicon anode technology. Together, we will deliver high-quality, cost-competitive solutions that accelerate the future of battery technology.” OCI will produce silane by utilizing by-products from an existing manufacturing process used for semiconductor materials, further compounding cost-competitiveness.

The groundbreaking ceremony signifies a significant leap forward in the commercialization of silicon anode materials. With a secure supply chain and a state-of-the-art production facility on the horizon, the company is poised to revolutionize the lithium-ion battery landscape and unlock a new era of energy performance.

Attending the groundbreaking ceremony were: Nexeon CEO Scott Brown, Jeonbuk State Vice Governor Jonghun Kim, Gunsan Mayor Imjune Kang, National Assembly Member Youngdae Shin, Jeonbuk State Council Taechang Kang and Dongku Kim, OCI CEO Yooshin Kim, and SC Engineering EVP Dae-sik Wang. This ceremony is the first step to implementing an eco-friendly project to produce lithium-ion battery materials, marking Gunsan City as a hub for innovation.

In addition, the management of SKC, SJL Partners, BNW and Shinhan Securities (investors in Nexeon) joined the ground-breaking ceremony.

-03 April 2024-