In a strategic leap toward clean energy innovation, Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd has approved an AUD 15 million investment in Sicona Battery Technologies, an Australian pioneer in next-generation battery materials. This move marks a significant milestone in India’s ambition to become a global hub for advanced energy storage solutions, particularly in the electric vehicle and consumer electronics sectors.
Key highlights
- Himadri to invest AUD 15 million in Sicona Battery Technologies
- Funds to support expansion of Sicona’s pilot plant and sample production
- Licensing agreement enables Himadri to build SiCx silicon-carbon anode facility in India
- SiCx material promises over 20 percent higher energy density and 40 percent faster charging
Strategic partnership and investment scope
Himadri’s board has greenlit a capital infusion of AUD 15 million into Sicona through the subscription of Compulsorily Convertible Notes. This investment is part of a broader licensing agreement that grants Himadri exclusive rights to commercialize Sicona’s proprietary SiCx silicon-carbon anode technology in India. The partnership is structured to be capital-light, allowing Sicona to scale without bearing the full cost of first-of-a-kind infrastructure.
1. The investment will be deployed in tranches over 18 months
2. Himadri will build and operate a SiCx production facility in India, fully funded by the company
3. Sicona retains intellectual property rights and will earn royalties from Indian sales
4. The Indian facility will primarily serve EV and electronics manufacturers, both domestic and global
Technology and performance impact
SiCx is a silicon-carbon composite material designed to enhance lithium-ion battery performance. Unlike traditional silane-based processes, SiCx uses inert raw materials, making it safer, scalable, and cost-effective. When blended with graphite in ratios of 5 to 20 percent, SiCx delivers transformative benefits.
1. Energy density increases by more than 20 percent, extending EV driving range
2. Charging times are reduced by over 40 percent, addressing a key barrier to EV adoption
3. SiCx is compatible with existing lithium-ion production lines, enabling seamless integration
4. The material supports supply chain diversification and reduces transport emissions
This innovation is particularly relevant for India, where EV adoption is accelerating and demand for high-performance batteries is surging. By localizing production, Himadri aims to reduce dependency on imported materials and position India as a competitive exporter of advanced battery components.
Manufacturing and market expansion
The upcoming SiCx facility in India will be a cornerstone of Himadri’s clean energy strategy. It complements the company’s existing portfolio of speciality chemicals and advanced materials, which serve industries ranging from automotive and defence to construction and agriculture.
1. Himadri operates eight zero-liquid discharge pitch facilities and exports to over 56 countries
2. The new plant will cater to automotive, consumer electronics, defence, and space sectors
3. Sicona’s pilot plant in Australia will also be expanded using proceeds from the investment
4. Sample production will be ramped up to meet qualification demands from global cell manufacturers
Leadership perspectives
Anurag Choudhary, Chairman and CEO of Himadri, emphasized the transformative nature of the partnership. By integrating Sicona’s technology with Himadri’s manufacturing capabilities, the companies aim to create a blueprint for innovation-led clean energy leadership. Christiaan Jordaan, CEO and Co-Founder of Sicona, highlighted the capital-light model as a strategic advantage, enabling rapid scale-up without compromising financial discipline.
Conclusion
Himadri’s investment in Sicona Battery Technologies is more than a financial transaction—it is a bold step toward reshaping the global battery materials landscape. With SiCx technology at its core, this partnership promises to deliver high-performance, scalable, and sustainable solutions for the energy challenges of tomorrow. As India accelerates its clean energy transition, Himadri is positioning itself at the forefront of material science innovation and global supply chain leadership.
Sources: Battery-Tech Network, Machine Maker, EV Reporter
