Locksley Resources Limited (ASX: LKY, OTCQX: LKYRF, FSE: X5L) ('Locksley' or 'the Company') is pleased to provide an update on the progress of its sponsored research program with Rice University in Texas, USA.
Latest laboratory results from this demonstrate significant advancements across antimony extraction, materials fabrication and battery related applications.
High-Efficiency Antimony Extraction
Laboratory optimisation of deep eutectic system (DES) system processing has demonstrated strong antimony extraction performance using feedstocks from Locksley's Desert Antimony Mine (DAM), part of its Mojave Project, under controlled conditions. Both concentrate upgrading and direct ore processing pathways continue to advance, with ongoing optimisation targeting high-purity antimony suitable for downstream industrial and defense applications.
Downstream Materials Fabrication and Energy Applications
Locksley and Rice University have expanded the research scope to investigate innovative downstream antimony products for industrial and advanced technology markets.
Direct Ni-Sb Electrodeposition
Locksley and Rice University are advancing development of antimony-based composite materials for potential use in next-generation battery systems. Initial proof-of-concept work has demonstrated the formation of antimony-coated nickel substrates, representing a potential pathway toward high-performance anode materials used in AI energy infrastructure and robotics.
Antimony-Based Composite Anode Materials
The research team has successfully achieved preliminary synthesis of Sb2S3/graphite composites with up to 20% loading directly from sulfur-containing solvent leach solutions. Initial full-cell tests integrating LiFePO4 cathode have provided early directional results, indicating an N/P ratio of approximately 1.19.
Unlike conventional graphite-silicon anodes, when incorporated into composite structures, such as Sb2S3/graphite, antimony can mitigate the effects of volume expansion during cycling, improving stability and lifespan. This could position antimony-based anodes more favourably for use in lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries, with further optimisation and validation.
Electrolyte Safety Enhancements
Parallel work has identified potential for antimony-based additives to improve battery safety characteristics, including its flame-retardant properties. Research into antimony chloride (SbCl5) as an electrolyte additive has indicated a reduction in Self-Extinguishing Time (SET), approaching non-flammable performance (
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