HPQ's Patent Application for Continuous SiOx Manufacturing Moves to PCT National Phase

Silicon Oxide (SiOx), the key starting material in producing GEN3 silicon-based anode materials for batteries, is central to our innovation. HPQ is pleased to announce that the provisional patent application, filed in France in November 2023, for a continuous Silicon Oxide (SiOx) manufacturing process, is advancing to the PCT National Phase. This milestone follows very encouraging feedback from patent examiners who have reviewed our provisional application.

Current industrial SiOx manufacturing processes rely on the volatilization of quartz (SiO₂) and Upgraded Metallurgical Grade Silicon (UMG Si) [6] in reactors. These processes are typically carried out in batches, which limits productivity, increases costs, and leads to higher energy consumption.

HPQ’s new patented process aims to transition to continuous SiOx production, addressing key limitations by tripling productivity, reducing energy consumption by 20%, and lowering costs by 25-30%. Additionally, the process is designed to produce higher-quality silicon-based materials, offering greater homogeneity and less contamination—attributes that are better suited to the battery market while delivering a more favorable carbon footprint [7] .

Another notable advantage of the proposed process is that it can be seamlessly integrated into HPQ PUREVAPTM QRR without requiring significant changes to the reactor design, thereby minimizing technological development risks. Additionally, it’s important to note that the selling price of SiOx is approximately 2 to 3 times higher than that of UMG silicon [8] .

“Our battery cycling results clearly demonstrate that our silicon-based anode material technology is in an enviable position. The progression of our SiOx patent application to the PCT National Phase marks another significant step forward in developing proprietary processes that will enable HPQ to manufacture silicon-based anode materials with low operating and capital costs, as well as a low carbon footprint,” said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon Inc. and NOVACIUM SAS. “This could very well position HPQ and NOVACIUM as key players in delivering next-generation energy solutions that meet both performance and sustainability goals for the industry.”