ExxonMobil acquires Superior Graphite to develop US-based synthetic graphite supply, supporting high-performance batteries and advancing the energy transition.
ExxonMobil has announced an agreement to acquire the technology, US-based assets, and select international offices of Superior Graphite, a recognized leader in the graphite industry with over a century of experience in graphite and materials production. This strategic move represents a significant step forward in ExxonMobil’s ongoing efforts to establish a resilient, high-performance synthetic graphite supply chain within the United States.
Unlike conventional graphite sourced from mining operations, synthetic graphite offers multiple advantages. It is less labor-intensive, delivers more consistent quality, and can be manufactured using ExxonMobil’s carbon-rich feedstocks derived from its existing refining streams. This approach allows the company to scale production more efficiently while producing superior graphite compared to current market offerings. By leveraging these capabilities, ExxonMobil aims to accelerate the development of advanced graphite materials that meet the growing needs of high-performance applications.
Synthetic graphite is increasingly vital in supporting the global energy transition. It plays an essential role in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and stationary energy storage solutions, serving as the primary material in battery anodes. The quality of graphite directly influences overall battery performance, including charging speed, energy density, and operational lifespan. With demand for high-performance batteries projected to rise substantially, the market for advanced graphite materials is expected to expand concurrently.
The acquisition of Superior Graphite enhances ExxonMobil’s ability to meet these emerging demands. Superior Graphite brings extensive industry expertise, a portfolio of valuable intellectual property, and a proven manufacturing process. This process is designed to be less energy-intensive, more land-efficient, and capable of higher throughput than traditional production methods. Combining ExxonMobil’s technological capabilities with Superior Graphite’s established know-how positions the company to deliver graphite materials that can support faster charging rates and extended battery life, addressing critical needs in the electric mobility and renewable energy sectors.
Through this acquisition, ExxonMobil is not only strengthening its domestic supply chain for synthetic graphite but also reinforcing its commitment to supporting innovation in energy storage solutions. By investing in advanced materials and leveraging existing carbon feedstocks, ExxonMobil is laying the foundation for a more sustainable and reliable supply of graphite, while simultaneously enhancing its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving battery materials market. This initiative underscores the company’s broader strategy to integrate upstream and downstream operations to create value across the energy and materials ecosystem, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy future.
