Breakthrough Achieved in Magnesium-Air Battery Technology; Lithium Mine Project in British Columbia, Canada Suspended Due to Litigation [SMM Survey]

Japan Develops Magnesium-Air Solid-State Battery: Graphene Cathode Solves Chloride Corrosion Challenge

A research team at the University of Tsukuba in Japan recently developed a new-type all-solid-state magnesium-air battery. Using nitrogen-doped porous graphene in place of conventional platinum-based cathodes, together with a solid polymer electrolyte containing magnesium chloride, the team successfully resolved the chloride corrosion issue that has long plagued magnesium-air batteries.

Magnesium-air batteries use oxygen in the air as the active material of the positive electrode, and their theoretical energy density was comparable to that of lithium-air batteries. However, in traditional designs, chloride ions in the electrolyte triggered internal chlorination reactions, leading to degradation of key components. By constructing a nitrogen-doped porous graphene structure, the research team enabled it to withstand chloride ion attack while maintaining high catalytic activity. The structure also provided storage space for discharge products, ensuring efficient material transport within the air battery.

Performance tests showed that the new system outperformed comparable batteries using platinum cathodes. The solid electrolyte design eliminated the risk of liquid electrolyte leakage, and even when bent to 120 degrees, it maintained its initial performance without leakage, demonstrating potential for applications in flexible electronics and wearable devices.

Magnesium resources are far more abundant than lithium and platinum, helping reduce supply chain risks. The study provided a viable technical pathway for developing low-cost, high-safety rechargeable magnesium-air batteries, and the findings were published in Advanced Functional Materials.

Magnesium Mine in British Columbia, Canada, to Be Shipped to China for Processing, Tourism Town Files Lawsuit to Halt Project

The Record Ridge magnesium mine project near Rossland, British Columbia, Canada, has sparked major controversy. Developer WHY Resources has obtained a mining permit and is expected to ship the mined magnesium ore through US ports to Yulin, China, for processing, where 20 of global magnesium supply capability is concentrated. The project has an annual capacity of 63,500 mt, but all ore will be exported rather than processed within Canada.

This has intensified tensions with the local tourism economy. Rossland achieved economic transformation by relying on Red Mountain Resort, with annual tourism revenue exceeding $40 million. Opponents warned that mining dust would threaten public health and damage world-class mountain biking trails. A local merchant group, Save Record Ridge Action Committee, has already filed a lawsuit seeking an environmental assessment and a suspension of project development. The court will hold a hearing on March 10.