GreenWave 2
The need for graphite is expected to grow by 25 times until 2040 driven especially by the growth of green energy initiatives and electrical vehicles. Graphite is regarded as a critical raw material within the EU and is typically produced through unsustainable methods, either as natural mined or synthetic graphite from fossil sources. Our project seeks to create sustainable graphite by utilizing biomass and energy-efficient microwave rapid heating technologies. This approach capitalizes on Europe’s abundant forest and biomass resources, particularly in the Nordic countries, to reduce dependence on non- European graphite sources. We will explore converting biomass side streams from the pulp and paper industry, such as lignin, into graphite. The lignin will be coated onto silicon carbide (SiC) wafers which are stable at high temperatures and efficiently absorb microwaves for rapid heating. By scaling up this new and innovative process, the project will contribute to net-zero industry act by sequestering the carbon from biomass side streams, decreasing the energy consumption during graphitization, and strengthen the resilience of graphite supply chains through domestic, sustainable production, thereby fostering a cleaner and more robust graphite industry. This project will also explore the end-user applications of the produced graphite as lithium-ion battery anodes. With our Swedish value chain, we aim to pave the way for a green and resilient production of graphite within EU.