Iron Powder Pilot Plant

Press Release

GKN Hoeganaes, a division of GKN Powder Metallurgy and one of the largest iron powder producers globally has announced a strategic collaboration with First Phosphate. This partnership marks a significant step toward establishing a North American supply chain for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, a critical component for the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage industries.

The partnership follows GKN Hoeganaes’ successful integration of First Phosphate’s magnetite into its proprietary Ancorsteel melting process. This innovative process has led to the development of a high-purity iron powder, which serves as a precursor for lithium iron phosphate cathode active material, necessary for the production of LFP batteries.

“Partnering with First Phosphate enables us to contribute our advanced iron powder technology to a rapidly growing industry that is focused on clean and efficient energy storage solutions”, said Matthias Voss, President at GKN Hoeganaes. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering a local supply chain for LFP batteries, addressing both sustainability and technological innovation.”

“Working with GKN Hoeganaes to bring Ancorsteel to the market is a vital step in advancing out mission to create a sustainable and locally sourced LFP battery supply chain”, said John Passalacqua, CEO at First Phosphate. “This partnership combines our high-quality phosphate resources with GKN Hoeganaes’ expertise in iron powder production, setting the stage for a robust North American battery ecosystem.”