Anson Resources begins lithium battery cell performance testing through Novonix

Anson Resources Ltd (ASX:ASN) (FRA:9MY) has engaged Novonix Battery Technology Solutions to test the performance of lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate samples extracted from the company’s flagship Paradox Brine Project in Utah, USA, in lithium-ion battery cells. Based in Nova Scotia, Canada, Novonix Battery Technology Solutions, a subsidiary of Novonix Limited (ASX:NVX) (OTCQX:NVNXF), provides high precision battery testing equipment to tier-1 battery makers and Anson intends to use these results to further discussions with prospective offtake partners. Using Novonix’s pilot cell manufacturing line, several kilograms of each of Anson’s lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate samples will be used together with commercial battery cathode precursor materials to form NMC622 cathode powders that will be processed into lithium-ion batteries for testing. It is anticipated the testing will take around 4-5 months, including cell assembly and testing, beginning early February. Entering 2021 with “considerable momentum” Anson executive chairman and CEO Bruce Richardson said: “The commencement of the Novonix battery performance testing program is the next significant step forward for Anson in the development of the lithium production from the Paradox brines. “We are confident our lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate samples will perform strongly given the results of previous purity test-work confirmed that the samples we produced exceeded customer standards. “A significant body of work has been completed at the Paradox Brine Project over recent months and we enter 2021 with considerable momentum and several important development milestones within clear reach.” Broaden customer base and increase offtake opportunities  Data collected will be used to draw conclusions about Anson’s lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide performance in commercial battery cells in a format that will be recognised by potential industry partners, end-users or customers supporting the company’s marketing efforts. By conducting its own battery cell performance test-work, rather than providing a sample to one potential cathode producer only to conduct the test, Anson plans to broaden its customer base and increase its offtake opportunities in a market where new potential customers are emerging as more companies announce plans to produce lithium-based batteries, particularly in the USA and Europe. Anson's shares have been as much as 18% higher in early trading to 4.1 cents.