GCM Raises A$2.48M as VHD Graphite Pilot Plant Exceeds Density Standards
Green Critical Minerals has made significant strides in commercialising its Very High-Density (VHD) Graphite technology, achieving exceptional pilot plant results and positioning itself at the forefront of clean energy and electronics markets.
- Acquisition of advanced VHD Graphite technology with deferred payment structure
- Successful commissioning and first production at NSW pilot plant exceeding industry density benchmarks
- Appointment of Professor Andrew Ruys to lead R&D and commercialisation efforts
- VHD Graphite’s superior thermal conductivity targets high-growth sectors including clean energy and electronics
- Ongoing exploration and development across multiple graphite and minerals projects
Technology Acquisition and Strategic Expansion
Green Critical Minerals (GCM) has taken a decisive step forward by acquiring 100% rights to an advanced Very High-Density (VHD) Graphite technology from Cerex Pty Ltd. This acquisition, structured with no upfront payment and deferred milestone-based consideration capped at $5 million, underscores the vendor’s confidence in the technology’s commercial potential. Developed initially by Professor Charles Sorrell and colleagues at UNSW, the VHD technology enables rapid production of graphite blocks with superior material properties, positioning GCM to expand downstream into industrial and electronic markets valued at over US$680 billion annually.
The proprietary process notably reduces production time from up to 12 weeks to just 24-36 hours, while operating at lower graphitisation temperatures and requiring less specialised infrastructure. This efficiency could disrupt traditional synthetic graphite manufacturing, offering a scalable and cost-effective alternative.
Pilot Plant Milestones and Performance
Construction of the VHD Technology pilot plant in New South Wales was completed ahead of schedule in December 2024, with commissioning commencing in early January 2025. The pilot plant supports two production lines: smaller blocks tailored for high-performance computing heat sinks, and larger blocks designed for applications such as electrical discharge machining and solar-thermal energy storage systems.
In a significant validation of the technology, the first production run yielded 12 test graphite blocks that exceeded industry density benchmarks on an unoptimised basis. The best average density recorded was 1,959 kg/m3, surpassing nuclear graphite standards (1,700-1,900 kg/m3) and electrode graphite benchmarks (1,550-1,800 kg/m3). These results highlight the potential for VHD Graphite to meet demanding performance criteria across multiple sectors.
Market Applications and R&D Leadership
VHD Graphite’s exceptional thermal conductivity, outperforming copper, aluminium, and conventional graphite, makes it highly suited for next-generation heat sinks in electronics, including AI data centres, supercomputers, and aerospace applications. Additionally, its capacity to store and rapidly transmit heat positions it as a critical material for solar-thermal energy storage, a key enabler for decarbonising power generation.
To accelerate commercialisation, GCM appointed Professor Andrew Ruys as Head of Research and Development. Professor Ruys brings global expertise in advanced ceramics and pilot plant operations, reinforcing GCM’s commitment to refining the technology and scaling production.
Broader Project Developments and Financial Position
Alongside VHD Graphite advancements, GCM progressed exploration and development at its McIntosh Graphite Project, earning an 80% interest after significant investment. The company also reported promising assay results from its maiden drilling program at the Boulia Copper Gold Molybdenum Project, validating its geological models and opening new exploration avenues.
Financially, GCM completed a placement raising approximately A$2.48 million, bolstering its cash position to A$1.885 million at quarter-end. The company remains focused on managing expenditures prudently while advancing towards commercial production, with key milestones including laboratory-scale validation and customer qualification anticipated in 2025.
Legal and Corporate Updates
GCM continues to pursue legal proceedings against Hexagon Energy Materials Limited regarding alleged breaches of warranties under an earn-in agreement. Despite ongoing litigation, the company maintains operational momentum and strategic focus.
Overall, Green Critical Minerals’ recent quarterly report paints a picture of a company transitioning from technology acquisition to tangible production achievements, with a clear pathway toward commercialisation in high-value markets.
Bottom Line?
With pilot plant success and strategic leadership in place, Green Critical Minerals is poised to transform graphite applications in clean energy and electronics.
Questions in the middle?
- How will GCM navigate scaling from pilot plant to full commercial production while maintaining product quality?
- What are the timelines and criteria for customer qualification and market entry for VHD Graphite products?
- How might ongoing legal disputes impact GCM’s project development and partnerships?
