Under an agreement with Novonix and Australian cleantech hydroxide technology provider ICS Lithium, spodumene samples from Sayona Québec's flagship Authier Lithium Project will initially be processed into lithium hydroxide using ICS' closed-loop refining system.

The samples will then be sent to Novonix's independent battery testing facilities in Nova Scotia, Canada, to evaluate their conformity with lithium-ion battery standards. 

Testing is scheduled to begin in May and will be conducted at the Novonix battery laboratory in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Sayona MD Brett Lynch said its work is advancing toward its goal of "rapidly developing a blueprint for moving towards downstream processing in Québec" that will benefit from its environmental and economic advantages.

"These tests will underpin our ability to produce a clean and green, cost-effective and high-quality product perfect for the world's top EV makers," he added.