Dating back to the 16th century, graphite has been used for several operations, the production of pencils mixed with clay one of the oldest use cases. However, its usage has expanded over time, and since 1990, it has served as a valuable tool in battery production.
Graphite anode is responsible for storing electrical charge. In essence, when the battery discharges, electricity flows from the anode to the cathode, thus providing power to the battery.
Graphite in Lithium-ion Battery Production; Why?
The reasons for using graphite in lithium-ion battery production are not farfetched.
First, graphite is generally a ubiquitous mineral resource—it is readily available. Currently, Mozambique, Turkey, Brazil, China, India, etc., have some of the richest graphite deposits in the world. Secondly, it is not toxic. Unlike other battery materials capable of causing environmental damage, graphite is safe.
Finally, graphite’s capacity to store electricity is high. It can provide an enormous amount of electrical power to electric vehicles [EV] when used in lithium-ion batteries.
With EVs becoming increasingly popular, lithium-ion batteries have proven to be critical components of these vehicles. As opposed to other battery types, lithium-ion batteries are more energy-dense, ergo, meaning that they can store more energy in a smaller space. This makes them ideal for EVs as they allow these electric vehicles to have a tiny battery storage space, saving a considerable amount of weight and space.
As individuals and organizations continue to clamor for EVs, the market for lithium-ion and, indirectly, graphite grows exponentially. Hence, the need for increased graphite mining and refining.
Other Use Cases of Graphite
Not surprisingly, graphite’s usage goes beyond the electric vehicle and battery production industries. Currently, the mineral resource is deployed in various enterprise-grade and cutting-edge technologies.
First, graphite serves as a key component in creating efficient and sturdier solar panels. While most solar panels are made from silicon, graphite is used to develop alternative thin-film solar cells, which are remarkably easier to produce and cheaper. Thus, making them a far more feasible option, especially for massive production.
As most companies begin to shift to more eco-friendly tools in an attempt to abate environmental damage, graphite has become a vital material for this segue.
Why?
It is energy-efficient, uses less energy, and generates less pollution. As more companies continue to transit to the eco-friendly side, the demand for graphite will experience an unprecedented increase, again requiring increased mining and refining activities to meet market demand.
Titanium Usage in Batteries; Why?
A chemical element, titanium has over time become a helpful tool in the production of batteries. Its corrosion-resistant properties, lightweight, and enormous strength-to-weight ratio makes it an ideal tool for making batteries.
When juxtaposed with lead-acid batteries, titanium is incredibly lightweight as mentioned, possesses a capacity to charge and discharge as many times as possible, and has a higher power density. Additionally, it has a longer shelf life when compared to traditional batteries. As more companies continue to opt for titanium over lead acid, the demand for this element will continue to rise. Hence the need for increased mining and refining.
The Metallika Project
As the demand for graphite, titanium and other valuable minerals continues to soar, it is a great opportunity for a smart investor to participate in this growing market
Introducing the Metallika Token, an asset-backed by an array of graphite mining properties, this token will provide potential investors with the level of exposure needed to enter the mining industry without actually owning or managing a mining operation.
Metallika offers holders of this token access to a plethora of valuable mining data and market insight to help them make well-calculated and informed decisions. To continue delivering more, Metallika establishes partnerships in Afrika and APAC regions to ensure growth and sustainability of its operations as well as create a long-term and profitable business model for investors.
With some of the world’s graphite biggest deposits found in Africa—Morocco, Mozambique, Tanzania—and Asia—China—Metallika is actively working in these regions to deliver safe yet rewarding investment opportunities.
Metallika is leveraging blockchain technology to actively increase users’ participation in exploration, excavation, and mining processes of valuable minerals. Therefore, allowing low-income investors to participate in promising projects in mining industries.
