Zentek Subsidiary Albany Graphite Achieves Near-Theoretical Anode Performance in Independent Lithium-Ion Battery Testing

Zentek Subsidiary Hits Key Battery Performance Milestone

Zentek Ltd. (Nasdaq:ZTEK, TSXV:ZEN) announced a major technical breakthrough on December 17, 2025, confirming that its wholly owned subsidiary, Albany Graphite Corp. (AGC), has achieved near theoretical anode performance in independent lithium-ion battery testing. This high-water mark was reached using ultrahigh purity Albany graphite, signaling the material’s exceptional suitability for next-generation energy storage solutions.

The achievement of near theoretical performance is a critical validation step, indicating that the graphite material is operating at or close to its maximum possible energy storage capacity within a battery cell. For battery manufacturers, this level of purity and performance translates directly into potentially higher energy density and longer cycle life for finished products.

Ultrahigh Purity Graphite Drives Results

The success of the testing hinges on the quality of the raw material—the ultrahigh purity Albany graphite. Graphite is a foundational component of most commercial lithium-ion battery anodes, and its purity is paramount to preventing unwanted side reactions that degrade battery life and performance.

This milestone positions AGC’s material as a high-potential candidate for advanced battery applications, particularly as the North American electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors seek reliable, high-specification domestic supply chains. The results were confirmed through independent testing, lending credibility to the material’s commercial readiness.

The achievement of near theoretical anode performance validates the quality of our ultrahigh purity Albany graphite and marks a significant step toward commercializing a key material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.

Broader Push for Domestic Battery Supply Chains

Zentek’s announcement comes amid a concerted effort across North America to secure and localize the supply chains for critical battery minerals, including high-purity graphite. The industry is actively seeking alternatives to traditional foreign sources to mitigate geopolitical risks and ensure stable material flow for the rapidly expanding EV market.

This strategic focus is evident across the sector:

• The Graphite One Project, for instance, is developing a comprehensive supply chain strategy that includes transporting advanced graphite material via the Port of Nome to the lower 48 states specifically for battery anode applications.
• Similarly, innovation in related critical materials, such as the partnership between Niron Magnetics and Moog Inc. to develop iron nitride magnets without relying on rare-earth minerals from China, underscores the industry-wide commitment to domestic, sustainable material sourcing.

The ability of AGC to produce a material that performs at a near-theoretical level provides a strong domestic option for battery manufacturers looking to meet stringent performance requirements while adhering to localization mandates.

Market Implications and Forward Outlook

While the immediate market impact on Zentek (ZTEK) was not detailed, technical validation of this magnitude typically de-risks the material for potential commercial partners and off-take agreements. High-performance graphite is essential for the next generation of batteries, which demand greater energy density to support longer driving ranges for EVs and more efficient grid storage solutions.

The successful independent testing suggests that AGC is moving closer to scaling up production or forming strategic partnerships to integrate its ultrahigh purity graphite into commercial battery lines. Future developments will likely focus on long-term cycling stability and integration trials with major battery cell manufacturers.