Batteries: China’s CATL expected to launch NCM 811 battery
China’s largest lithium-ion battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd plans to launch NCM 811 battery cells from 2019. The NCM811 technology offers both higher energy density and lower cost. CATL plans to produce battery cells with energy density of at least 230Wh/kg in 2019.
R&D market pulse: Electric vehicles ramping up global R&D
The R&D Index for the week ending August 31, 2018 closed at 4,884.84 for the 25 companies in the R&D Index. The Index was up 2.50% (or 119.35 basis points) from the week ending August 24, 2018.
GlassBuild America returns to Las Vegas
GlassBuild America is returning to the Las Vegas Convention Center, September 12–14, 2018. Hundreds of exhibitors will feature their newest products and developments, from tools and supplies to machinery and equipment and of course, glass.
Seven Refractories and Cobex sign exclusive distribution agreement for Russia and CIS
Seven Refractories and COBEX have signed a distribution agreement for Russia and CIS. This makes Seven Refractories the exclusive distributor for the entire Furnace Linings product portfolio of COBEX in Russia and the CIS region.
Alteo announces price increase
Throughout 2018 alumina production has suffered significant continuous cost increases—in particular bauxite, energy, freight, and caustic soda. Alteo will raise prices on its whole product portfolio, which will become effective on products shipped October 1, 2018 and beyond.
Shell’s cracker project progressing after administration waives steel quota
Shell Chemical Appalachia LLC can continue constructing its multi-billion dollar ethane cracker in western Pennsylvania without delay after the Trump administration last week eased restrictions on imported steel from South Korea, Argentina and Brazil.
Rare earths: Is magnet recycling a solution?
Researchers at the Critical Materials Institute and Ames Laboratory in the USA have received recognition for developing a magnet recycling process in which magnets are dissolved in water-based solutions, recovering more than 99% purity rare earth elements as well as cobalt.
Thai Malaya Glass inaugurates SB5 Saraburi furnace
Thai Malaya Glass has inaugurated the SB5 melting furnace at its Saraburi plant, Thailand. The new furnace will expand the group’s production capacity by 400tpd container glass in emerald green and flint. The furnace is equipped with a melting booster to increase melting capacity and flexibility.
Bipartisan legislation will end $1 million a day tax on manufacturers
“The bill will end the $1 million a day tax that manufacturers and other American businesses have endured just for buying parts and supplies they need,” NAM president Jay Timmons said in a statement. “Manufacturers will now be better equipped to compete and win against companies in China, Europe and elsewhere.”
Demand for nickel sulphate set to explode as industry excitement builds
Höhne-Sparborth suspects forecasts that nickel sulphate demand will increase five fold over the next decade are conservative and says the big question is not so much whether the demand is there, but whether there will be enough raw materials to meet that demand.
Author
Faye Oney