Operations
Vecco Industrial Research and Development
Is undertaking world first research and development on behalf of Vecco Group in the areas of vanadium processing and electrolyte production.
Vanadium redox flow batteries function by using an electric charge to alter the oxidation state of the electrolyte when charging and discharging the battery. The precipitation of vanadium is conducted in the V(V) state as this form of the vanadium ion has a low solubility, allowing easier precipitation. However, this is exactly what is not required during operation of the battery where the solubility of vanadium ions needs to be kept high.
Vecco is undertaking research to develop a new process for the extraction of vanadium from shale in the preferred oxidation state and as a vanadium sulphate supply for use as electrolyte in VRBs.
- Brisbane Met Labs (Nagrom Brisbane) supports Vecco with its R&D activities as a Research Services Provider.
- Engenium supports Vecco with experiment design and reporting.
Vecco Electrolyte Manufacturing Facility
Is developing the first commercial scale vanadium electrolyte manufacturing plant in Australia. Vanadium electrolyte is expensive to transport making domestic manufacturing the most economical option to support the rollout of vanadium batteries.
Stage 1 of the plant development will produce approximately 30MWh per annum of vanadium electrolyte with stage 2 increasing this capacity to over 100Mwh per annum.
The plant has been specifically designed to produce a range of electrolyte products to meet the specifications of the major global vanadium battery manufacturers.
When combined with a steady, low cost supply from the Debella Mining operation, Vecco can provide a secure source of electrolyte for battery projects throughout Australia.
Protecting and preserving the environment Environment and Sustainability
Is an unreserved priority for us and we take this responsibility very seriously. Like all mining activities, some of the biggest questions people have are about the environment. What are the likely impacts? How much energy does it use?
These are all good questions.
Technology deployed for battery metals operations are environmentally sustainable. We are working closely with our process engineers to ensure our processes minimise land and water requirements and reduce carbon emissions. Our products produced also have a significant impact in reducing carbon emissions by supporting energy storage for large scale renewable energy projects and electric vehicles.
We ensure all our employees and contractors operate in an environmentally responsible manner, and adhere to our environmental, Health & Safety and Community Policies.
