Carbonscape reshaping energy landscape

CarbonScape, headquartered in Riverlands, is pioneering the transformation of forestry byproducts into high-quality graphite for lithium-ion batteries. This process, which converts tree debris into graphite, has garnered international attention and investment from major companies such as Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) and Stora Enso Oyj.

The graphite used in lithium-ion batteries is highly refined, often synthetic and derived from petroleum. CarbonScape's method offers an alternative by recycling biomass to produce graphite more efficiently, at lower temperatures and in less time. Currently, the process is at the pilot scale, with plans to scale up to industrial levels with the help of its partners.

General Manager Oliver Foster highlighted the company's progress, stating, "For the last five years, we’ve received a strong endorsement from the supply chain that we’re developing a product that customers will want." CarbonScape aims to validate its product within the next six to twelve months.

CarbonScape originated in Marlborough in 2007, with a patented process initially aimed at producing green coke for New Zealand's steel industry. The company pivoted to focus on graphite, which has a market value significantly higher than coke. Graphite is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, comprising about 50% of the battery mass.

Despite having employees in Wellington and France, CarbonScape maintains its base in Riverlands. Oliver Foster noted the advantages of staying in Marlborough, citing the ability to attract talent and the strategic benefits of developing their technology in a relatively secluded location.