Vibrantz scales up high-purity manganese sulfate for North American lithium-ion battery market

HOUSTON, July 19, 2023 – Vibrantz Technologies announced today it is constructing a new pilot plant, the first step in an expansion at its Tampico, Mexico, facility to manufacture high-purity manganese sulfate (HPMSM), a raw material for lithium-ion batteries used in the production of cathode active materials. Vibrantz has designed a new process to produce HPMSM in an effort to better meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly, battery-grade manganese sulfate as automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) prioritize the production of zero-emission electric vehicles. Over the next three years, the expansion is anticipated to add 45,000 metric tons per year of capacity at Vibrantz’s Mexico facility which could help power roughly two million electric vehicles.
The only experienced Western producer of HPMSM, Vibrantz already manufactures various manganese chemicals at scale and produces HPMSM at its facility in Saint-Ghislain, Belgium. The expanded Mexican site, together with the existing plant in Belgium, is expected to provide two reliable HPMSM sources for
the lithium-ion battery market. “At Vibrantz, we are committed to our long-term vison of being a sustainable and world-class specialty chemicals and materials solutions provider,” said D. Michael Wilson, Vibrantz CEO. “One of the ways we are stepping closer to this vision is by leveraging over a decade of expertise in high-purity manganese sulfate production and 50 plus years in the manganese chemical market delivering technologies that benefit the OEMs that are producing and the consumers purchasing lower carbon footprint vehicles.”
“Vibrantz manufactures various manganese chemicals at scale and values being a dependable supplier,” said David Newton, president of the Advanced Materials segment at Vibrantz. “This technology optimization pilot is designed to ensure future plant reliability as we continue to engage the electric vehicle value chain in commercial discussions for high-volume offtake agreements. I am excited by the market reception our project has received from OEMs and the battery supply chain. We look forward to building strong partnerships with the industry." The expansion is expected to be operational in 2026. To learn more about how Vibrantz is helping build a longer-lasting, more efficient battery, visit vibrantz.com/markets/batteries.
About Vibrantz Technologies
Vibrantz is a leading global provider of specialty chemicals and materials whose purpose is to bring color, performance and vibrancy to life. Serving over 11,000 customers, our products and technologies serve a wide array of applications and make their way into myriad consumer products. With key competencies in particle engineering, glass and ceramic science and color technology, Vibrantz has leading positions in specialty mineral and chemical additives for batteries, electronic components and construction; dry powder pigments for paints and coatings, thermoset plastics and thermoplastics; and high-performance glass coatings and porcelain enamel solutions. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company employs approximately 5,000 people and operates 65 manufacturing sites across six continents. Visit vibrantz.com to learn more.