Perth-based resources and battery technology company AVL has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Tyfast Energy to evaluate its planned vanadium oxide products for the US company’s lithium vanadium oxide (LVO) anode technology and explore potential future supply and offtake arrangements.
AVL Chief Executive Officer Graham Arvidson said the collaboration has the potential to support increased Australian participation in the global supply chain for heavy-duty batteries and the company’s broader strategy to develop diversified markets for vanadium across VFBs and lithium-ion chemistries.
“For AVL, the opportunity is broader than a potential new source of vanadium demand,” he said. “We see strategic alignment between Australian critical minerals, Tyfast’s US-developed battery technology and the increasing focus on secure and resilient supply chains across Australia, the United States and other markets seeking supply chain diversification.”
Tyfast is developing LVO-based lithium-ion batteries designed to combine rapid charging, long cycle life, broad temperature performance and high energy density for demanding heavy-duty applications.
The company has reported charging to more than 80% state of charge in under six minutes at room temperature and under 11 minutes at -20°C in 3 Ah pouch cells, with energy density of about 200-250 Wh/kg.
Its wider development program has also demonstrated more than 10,000 cycles in smaller-format test cells and operation across temperatures ranging from -40 C to 70 C.
These performance metrics could be particularly well suited for defense, heavy-duty transportation, construction and other industrial applications where charging downtime, operating conditions and intensive duty cycles can limit conventional lithium-ion battery performance.
Under the MOU, AVL and Tyfast will undertake technical and commercial evaluation of Australian vanadium oxide, including determining target product specifications and assessing potential quantities and delivery schedules.
The program is expected to include sample testing, bench and pilot-scale qualification, potential mine-site and fleet trials and engagement with original equipment manufacturers.
Successful technical and commercial evaluation could lead to demonstration projects, pre-commercial supply and negotiations for longer-term commercial supply or offtake agreements.
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