(Lanka-e-News -17.Jan.2025, 10.20 PM) A groundbreaking innovation by the National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), under the Ministry of Science and Technology, aims to commercialize rechargeable battery production utilizing Sri Lanka's high-purity graphite. This innovative low-cost technology, developed through extensive research, was the focus of a discussion held yesterday (Jan 16) at the Ministry's auditorium, chaired by the Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Krishantha Abeysekera.
Sri Lanka is renowned for its high-quality, premium-grade graphite, a resource used globally across numerous industries. Among its various applications, rechargeable battery production holds a prominent position. For this purpose, graphite must achieve an extraordinary purity level of 99.99%. Researchers at NIFS have developed a cost-effective method to purify graphite to this level, creating a product with immense commercial potential.
Historically, Sri Lanka has relied on exporting raw natural resources in bulk, foregoing the opportunity to produce and export value-added goods. Similarly, groundbreaking knowledge and technology developed through local research often remain uncommercialized. This project represents a significant step in the government's new agenda to address these issues by promoting innovation-driven economic growth.
The meeting brought together representatives from:
The Ministry of Science and Technology.
Scientists from NIFS.
Private-sector stakeholders interested in funding the project.
The primary goal was to exchange views on advancing this technology to the commercial level and exploring its potential economic benefits for the country. The discussions were highly productive, with positive feedback from all participants. An agreement to proceed with the project under a formal memorandum of understanding is expected.
Key attendees included:
Y.L. Mohamed Nawavi, Secretary to the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Prof. Athula Sumathipala, Director of NIFS.
Prof. Cyril Wijesundara, and Dr. Athula Wijesinghe, senior scientists at NIFS.
Private-sector entrepreneurs Cherantha de Silva and Kapila de Silva.
Prof. Saman Senewirathna, Chairman of the National Science Foundation.
Prof. Ajith de Alwis, Chief Innovation Officer at the National Innovation Agency.
Prof. Upul Sonnadara from the University of Colombo.
This initiative, seen as a significant milestone under the government's vision, is set to establish a solid foundation for leveraging Sri Lanka’s natural and intellectual resources. The successful commercialization of this battery technology could create significant economic benefits for the country while positioning Sri Lanka as a key player in the global renewable energy and technology markets.
The Ministry of Science and Technology's media unit highlighted that the project’s next steps will include formalizing collaborations and launching the commercialization phase in the near future.
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by (2025-01-17 16:51:01)
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