Lithium Universe has entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Lafarge Canada, a cement producer, for the exclusive supply of Aluminosilicate Secondary Product (ASCR) from its Bécancour Lithium Carbonate Refinery in Quebec, Canada.
The refinery is designed to produce up to 18,270 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate, utilising a “globally benchmarked” technology from the Jiangsu Lithium Carbonate Plant.
It will produce approximately 130,000tpa of ASCR by-product, which will be marketed to the cement industry as an additive.
The ASCR product, rich in silica, aluminium oxide and ferric oxide, is known for improving the “compressive strength” of cement and reducing costs.
Lafarge will collaborate with Lithium Universe to finalise a definitive supply and purchase agreement.
The positive pre-feasibility study of the Bécancour Refinery underlines its economic viability, even in a low pricing environment, and positions the company to capitalise on the growing demand for lithium.
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By GlobalDataLithium Universe chairman Iggy Tan said: “This is great news for Lithium Universe as we partner with Lafarge Canada to enhance the North American battery materials supply chain and promote sustainable innovation in Canada’s cement industry.
“This collaboration will not only advance our focus on building Bécancour Lithium refinery’s secondary product supply chain but also strengthening local supply chains, fostering a more circular economy in Québec, and contributing to greener construction materials.”
The Bécancour Lithium Carbonate Refinery is part of Lithium Universe’s mission to address the “lithium conversion gap” in North America.
The company aims to support the supply chain for original equipment manufacturers, particularly in the automotive sector, by converting spodumene supply into lithium chemicals for electric vehicle battery plants.
With more than 20 major manufacturers planning to deploy an estimated 1,000GW of battery capacity by 2028, the demand for lithium is expected to soar to around 850,000tpa of lithium carbonate equivalent, according to the company.
This strategic move by Lithium Universe also supports national security goals by reducing reliance on foreign lithium converters.
