AUMUND Corporation and Versa Materials Technology Explore New Approaches to Simplify Battery Material Production

Two areas of expertise, one shared objective: exploring new approaches to simplify and scale the industrial production of battery cathode materials.

Growing demand requires scalable production processes

As the global demand for electric vehicles and energy storage systems continues to grow, so does the need for high-performance battery materials. At the same time, manufacturers face the challenge of increasing production capacity while maintaining product quality and ensuring economically scalable processes.

A key role in battery manufacturing is played by cathode materials. In particular, thermal processing and calcination are among the most critical and technically demanding steps in the production process.

Exploring opportunities to simplify existing workflows

Traditionally, cathode materials are transported through high-temperature kilns in so-called saggers (containers). While these proven processes are widely used, they require multiple handling and transfer steps throughout production, resulting in significant capital investment and operating costs. The concepts being explored by Versa Materials Technology and AUMUND Corporation, the U.S. subsidiary of AUMUND Group aim to simplify this workflow by integrating conveying and thermal processing more directly into the production sequence.

Combining expertise in battery materials and industrial process technology

Against this background, AUMUND Corporation and Versa Materials Technology have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly evaluate innovative conveying and process technologies for the production of battery cathode materials.

The collaboration combines two complementary areas of expertise. Versa Materials Technology brings extensive knowledge in the development and production of advanced cathode materials, while AUMUND contributes decades of experience in bulk material handling, high-temperature conveying, and industrial process engineering.

Together, the companies aim to explore new approaches to simplify existing production concepts and improve the efficiency of industrial-scale battery material manufacturing.

Integrating conveying and thermal processing

A key focus of the collaboration is the evaluation of closed and atmosphere-controlled calcination processes, as well as conveyor-based concepts for the thermal treatment of battery materials. The objective is to further integrate conveying and processing steps while identifying opportunities to reduce process complexity and material handling requirements.

Potential benefits across the battery value chain

For cathode material producers and companies across the battery value chain, this approach could offer several potential benefits:

• Simplified manufacturing processes
• Reduced material handling and processing steps
• Potential for lower capital investment
• Potential for reduced operating costs
• Improved scalability for growing production capacities
• High process stability and consistent product quality through controlled thermal processing

The collaboration aims to open new pathways for industrial battery material production. By combining innovative conveying and process technologies, the partners seek to help bridge the gap between material innovation and cost-effective large-scale manufacturing.

From technology concepts to potential industrial applications

Over the coming months, both companies will jointly evaluate technology concepts and potential industrial applications. The objective is to identify opportunities for more efficient, scalable, and cost-effective production methods that support the continued growth of the global battery industry.

About Versa Materials Technology

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Versa Materials Technology develops scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes for advanced battery cathode materials. The company focuses on technologies for nickel-rich NMC and LFP cathode materials, supporting the development of resilient and efficient battery supply chains.

More information for media representatives

Would you like to learn more about the collaboration between AUMUND Corporation and Versa Materials Technology? The complete press release with further background information is available as a PDF.

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