A groundbreaking initiative to commercialize rechargeable battery production using locally sourced and purified graphite was discussed at a high-level meeting chaired by the Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Krishantha Abeysena. The project stems from innovative low-cost technology developed by the National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS) to purify Sri Lanka’s high-quality graphite to a 99.99% purity level, suitable for battery production.
Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s finest graphite, a critical raw material for various industries, particularly the rechargeable battery sector. Historically, the country has exported raw graphite without adding value, failing to capitalize on its vast commercial potential. This new technology promises to address that gap by enabling domestic production of high-value products, boosting the country’s economy and reducing reliance on imports.
The meeting, held at the Ministry’s auditorium, brought together officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology, NIFS researchers, and private sector stakeholders. The participants explored opportunities for economic growth through the commercialization of this technology. Discussions were highly constructive, with stakeholders expressing strong interest in advancing the project. Next steps will involve formalizing partnerships through a Memorandum of Understanding.
Prominent attendees included Ministry Secretary Y.L. Mohamed Nawawi, Professor Athula Sumathipala of NIFS, Professor Cyril Wijesundara, Dr. Athula Wijesinghe, entrepreneurs Cherantha de Silva and Kapila de Silva, National Science Foundation Chairman Professor Saman Senaweera, Chief Innovation Officer of the National Innovation Agency Professor Ajith de Alwis, Professor Upul Sonnadara of the University of Colombo, and other key stakeholders.
The project aligns with the government’s vision to leverage local resources and indigenous technology for sustainable economic development. Once operational, it has the potential to transform Sri Lanka into a regional hub for rechargeable battery manufacturing, unlocking significant export and employment opportunities.
