First Graphene Ltd (ASX:FGR, OTCQB:FGPHF) has agreed on a partnership with Abu Dhabi-headquartered integrated services provider EMDAD Group to develop a small-scale, hydrodynamic cavitation reactor that will ultimately convert petroleum feedstock from oil producers into battery-grade graphite, graphene and hydrogen.
One of the key outcomes of the partnership, sealed with a binding memorandum of understanding, is the joint development and submission of a proposal to Abu Dhabi's state-owned oil company to fund the design, construction and commissioning of the mobile reactor using First Graphene’s Kainos Technology.
The Kainos Technology, which will be incorporated into the pilot reactor, has previously demonstrated its efficiency in producing graphitic materials and green hydrogen in a single-step process.
Notably, this technology offers a unique advantage by producing battery-grade materials through a thermodynamically favourable process, with clean hydrogen as a valuable by-product.
Promoting technology
First Graphene managing director and chief executive officer Michael Bell said: “We acquired Kainos Technology knowing there were industries of enormous and growing scale to benefit from its application – the energy and electric vehicle sectors among them.
“EMDAD’s reach into the Middle Eastern and global energy market is immense, as is the growing demand for synthetic graphitic materials essential to assisting the energy transition.
“Having a strategic partner like EMDAD come on board with a scope to develop and trial a pilot reactor will allow FGR to flex its IP muscle and provide a strong demonstration of the opportunity oil producers have to reduce their carbon footprint.
“Bringing Kainos Technology to life and assisting decarbonisation efforts through hydrogen and graphitic material production will attract more investment in technology development.”
Pursuing sustainability goals
EMDAD Group, with more than 40 years of experience in providing integrated upstream and downstream technology solutions to the oil sector in the United Arab Emirates, brings a strong commitment to minimising environmental impact and helping companies work towards net-zero ambitions.
Among its clients are some of the world's most prominent oil producers and service providers, including Eni, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, and TotalEnergies UAE.
“EMDAD is excited to partner with First Graphene for its innovative Kainos Technology development that could help the UAE in achieving environmental, sustainability and decarbonisation goals,” EMDAD director of Agencies S. Sujeendran said.
Expanding reach
Separately, First Graphene has signed a five-year deal with Keyser and Mackay (K&M) to boost sales across Europe, a significant milestone to extend the company’s reach into global markets.
Under the agreement, the leading international distribution agent will have exclusive distribution rights for First Graphene’s PureGRAPH® products across Europe, excluding the cement and concrete sector.
K&M's local offices will also provide storage facilities for the products, simplifying international freight and supply chain management.
Strengthening position
“This is an excellent opportunity for First Graphene and marks a momentous next step in the commercial expansion of our PureGRAPH® products into global markets,” Bell said.
“Demand for graphene-enhanced materials continues to rise around the world and this distribution deal bolsters First Graphene’s position as a world-leading supplier of graphene to European markets.”
Meanwhile, K&M director Charles Lynch added: “We are excited to provide our experienced distribution services to First Graphene, who have quickly become a globally renowned producer and supplier of high-quality graphene products.
“Keyser and Mackay represent over 100 suppliers who produce a wide range of products, and we look forward to promoting First Graphene’s PureGRAPH® product across the European markets.”