Naraha

Naraha, Japan

Product

Lithium hydroxide

Status

Construction/commissioning

Ownership

75%

Highlights

Battery Grade

Product Quality

10ktpa

Production Capacity

Primary grade LC

Feedstock from Olaroz

The Naraha Lithium Hydroxide Plant (Naraha), the first of its kind to be built in Japan, is designed to convert primary grade lithium carbonate feedstock into purified battery grade lithium hydroxide. The lithium carbonate feedstock of ~9,500tpa will be shipped from Olaroz.

Overview

Allkem has a 75% economic interest in the joint venture established with Toyotsu Lithium Corporation (TLC). Despite having significant influence, operational control is exercised by Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC).

TTC is managing the delivery of the project and will have management responsibility once operations commence, with input from Allkem technical personnel. A technical oversight committee of Allkem and TTC personnel is in place to provide strong governance and reporting practices.

The project is being delivered by an engineering, procurement, and construction contract with Veolia. Construction activities on site progressed throughout FY21 and pre-commissioning works are underway, targeting operations by early CY22 and full ramp up after 12 months.

Both joint venture partners will have responsibility for strategic marketing of lithium hydroxide from the plant through a joint marketing committee arrangement. This product will be used primarily by the Japanese battery industry supporting the transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs) by global auto manufacturers.

Allkem is also investigating the potential increase of Naraha’s production capacity in a Stage 2 expansion study.