Alpha HPA has been recognised in the April 2025 edition of the Australian Battery Society (ABS) newsletter for its contribution to improving lithium-ion battery safety. The feature includes an interview with Dr Nikhil Aravindakshan (Product Development Engineer) and Matthew Millar (Process Support Engineer), who share how Alpha HPA’s high-purity alumina (HPA) coatings are driving innovation in electric vehicle battery safety and performance.
Alpha HPA’s UltraCoat Process™ applies high-purity alumina coatings to key battery components including anodes, cathodes and aluminium cell casings. As Dr Nikhil explains, flame testing has shown that coated aluminium casings can withstand thermal runaway temperatures exceeding 1000°C for over nine minutes – compared to less than 15 seconds for uncoated casings. This major improvement in fire resistance supports a safer energy future, aligned with Alpha HPA’s sustainability goals.
The interview also highlights Alpha HPA’s ability to produce aluminium nitrate at scale, enabling the commercialisation of coatings that improve battery cycling life while reducing fire risks. This development addresses a longstanding gap in the battery industry, where the limited availability of high-purity aluminium nitrate had previously held back progress.
Matthew Millar expands on the company’s focus on scaling production without compromising quality. By establishing an on-site laboratory and refining process controls, Alpha HPA has rapidly moved from pilot campaigns to consistent 4N+ product output. He also notes exciting opportunities for Alpha HPA materials in emerging fields such as direct lithium extraction and solid-state batteries.
With construction of Stage Two of the HPA First Project underway in Gladstone, Alpha HPA is creating jobs, supporting the local economy and contributing to Australia’s sovereign battery supply chain. The company’s commitment to innovation, safety and sustainable manufacturing places it at the forefront of the global shift to cleaner, smarter technologies.
You can read the full interview in the ABS April 2025 Newsletter (PDF).
