IBU-tec advanced materials AG is making steady progress on its industrial-scale LFP battery material production facility in Bitterfeld, Germany. The company announced that construction of logistics infrastructure, expansion of analytics capabilities, and IT system harmonization are proceeding according to plan. Detailed engineering for the production facilities has commenced, and the steel structure for a new logistics hall with capacity for about 1,800 pallets has been erected, with interior fit-out expected within six months.
Following the topping-out ceremony for the state-of-the-art spray tower in April 2026, IBU-tec is implementing agreements with PowerCo SE regarding process development, capacity expansion, and production of LFP cathode material. Trial operations for the spray tower are scheduled to begin in Q4 2026. The facility, expected to start operations in 2028, will have an annual capacity of 15,000 tonnes, increasing IBU-tec's existing capacities by approximately five times. It is Europe's first of its kind and a cornerstone for building a European battery value chain.
The facility uses a proprietary production process developed by IBU-tec that avoids Chinese technology and is tailored to the European market. The LFP material boasts a superior CO2 footprint, consuming about half the energy of conventional Chinese processes. PowerCo has secured the entire production volume for a minimum of ten years. Jörg Leinenbach, CEO of IBU-tec, stated: “We are making good progress in building the large-scale production capacities for LFP battery materials in Bitterfeld. We are in close and constructive communication with PowerCo regarding the scheduled implementation of our timeline. In the coming months, we will achieve further milestones so that production can start as expected in 2028.”
This development is significant for Europe's energy transition, as it establishes local production of critical battery materials, reducing reliance on Asian imports and enhancing supply chain resilience. The plant's energy-efficient process also aligns with sustainability goals. For further details, refer to the original release.
