HPA is used in lithium-ion batteries to make ceramic separators, which provide thermal insulation for improved safety and charging.
HPA is also a critical ingredient for production of synthetic sapphire used in LEDs, semiconductors and optical lenses.
ChemX is engaged in a pre-feasibility study for its HiPurA process.
Developed in Western Australia, the process uses a novel technology capable of producing HPA and high purity aluminium cathode precursor salts for lithium-ion batteries.
ChemX said the process was low cost and low in energy consumption, compared to alternative technologies and not tied to mine production, with the feedstock being a widely available chemical.
As part of the PFS ChemX is building a pilot plant to optimise process and controls under continuous operation, to achieve a 99.99% (4N) purity HPA on a consistent basis.
ChemX CEO Peter Lee said integrated process commissioning of the micro plant and running the HiPurA HPA process under continuous operation would be a significant milestone for the technology.
"The micro plant operation will allow the company to optimise the current pre-feasibility study and achieve a major competitive step forward by providing product samples to potential customers," he said.
"Successful commissioning will also demonstrate the potential to offer customers a scalable, modular plant to supply HPA with significantly shorter plant construction times to feed directly into their lithium-ion battery supply chain."
ChemX managing director David Leavy said the PFS confirmed a number of the technical and operational objectives of the HiPurA process.
"As is common with studies utilising advanced novel technologies, several areas have been highlighted for optimisation which are best completed as part of the current study," he said.
"As a result, we will extend completion of the PFS into 2022's third quarter to complete these work streams."
Leavy said the short extension of time to complete the PFS would provide significant benefits for the development of the technology.
