Hazer partners with the Innovative Manufacturing CRC and secures $800,000 funding for Graphite ACM R&D Program

IMCRC is a not-for-profit, independent cooperative research centre that helps Australian companies increase their global relevance through research-led innovation in manufacturing products, processes and services.

Hazer has been awarded matching IMCRC funding of $800,000 to support its ongoing successful R&D collaboration with the University of Sydney’s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

Over the next two years, researchers will be investigating the use of graphite ACM derived from Hazer’s novel manufacturing process – the Hazer Process, focusing on applications including Li-ion batteries, water purification, and additives for lubrication products.  Previous R&D projects have indicated promising results in these three product sectors, as well as potential to be used as an additive in advanced building materials and cement.

This program will study and further develop our knowledge of the processes and conditions needed to produce high value graphite ACM including the processing and upgrading of such materials into high-value finished products.” said Hazer CTO and co-founder Dr Andrew Cornejo.

The project will optimise and test ACMs at both laboratory and pilot plant scale in collaboration with specialist carbon processors and users, to identify and secure a range of markets for graphite ACM produced from future industrial sized Hazer plants,” added Dr. Cornejo

Hazer Managing Director, Mr Geoff Ward said, “We are delighted to have partnered with the IMCRC and to have secured their support for our R&D program with the University of Sydney. CRCs are an important part of the Australian industry and research landscape, contributing significantly to industrial development in Australia. This enhanced collaboration platform will provide us with greater access to scientific and industrial resources, while reducing costs, as we further develop of the Hazer Process and Hazer graphite ACMs.”

Professor Yuan Chen from the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Sydney said, “Our research team has been working with Hazer on several research projects for the last two years. Our cooperation has delivered useful research outcomes, which have played an essential role in securing this new funding from IMCRC. This project is an excellent opportunity to convert the currently unutilised carbon materials produced in the Hazer process into high-value carbon products.”

David Chuter, CEO and Managing Director of the IMCRC highlighted, “advanced materials, particularly advanced carbon and carbon composites that can deliver significant advantages over more traditional materials such as steel and aluminium, are key technology enablers for Australian manufacturers.”