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John Passalacqua on First Phosphate’s groundbreaking achievements in the phosphate mining industry

In an insightful interview with Tracy Weslosky of InvestorNews during PDAC 2024, John Passalacqua, CEO and Director of First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS), shared the company’s strategic priorities and groundbreaking achievements in the phosphate mining industry, particularly its specialization in the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery sector. Passalacqua highlighted that First Phosphate’s main objective at PDAC 2024 was to engage with government officials from various levels, emphasizing the event’s significance as a meeting point for leaders from Canada, the United States, and internationally. He also underscored the unique position of First Phosphate as the only company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate specifically for the LFP battery industry, a factor that significantly sets them apart from other phosphate mining operations that typically focus on fertilizer production.

One of the most compelling aspects of First Phosphate’s strategy is its focus on producing high-grade purified phosphoric acid from phosphate issued from volcanic rock, a process essential for manufacturing LFP batteries. Passalacqua proudly announced a recent milestone where the company successfully converted phosphate ore into phosphate concentrate and then into purified phosphoric acid in partnership with Prayon in Belgium. This achievement underlines First Phosphate’s capability to contribute significantly to the LFP market in North America, a market that is just beginning to emerge according to industry experts. Additionally, Passalacqua addressed the company’s financial strategy, noting a successful capital raise of $8.2 million against a target of $2 million and securing a $170 million line of credit with the Export–Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), reflecting strong investor confidence and strategic government backing for their initiatives.

First Phosphate’s recent announcement of signing a memorandum of understanding with Groupe Goyette for logistics at the Hébertville-Station intermodal facility in Quebec further illustrates their strategic approach to infrastructure and supply chain development. This agreement aims to facilitate rapid transportation for the company’s mining and industrial outputs, crucial for their clientele in the EV and energy storage sectors. The appointment of Armand MacKenzie as Vice-President, Government Relations, and the comprehensive plans for a purified phosphoric acid plant at Port Saguenay, Quebec, are testaments to the company’s ambitious roadmap towards establishing a robust LFP battery ecosystem in North America. These steps, coupled with strategic partnerships and significant project developments, position First Phosphate as a pivotal player in the LFP battery supply chain, contributing not only to the battery industry but also promising economic, social, and job creation benefits in the Quebec region.

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About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in responsible manner and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate materially devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

To learn more about First Phosphate Corp., click here

Disclaimer: First Phosphate Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorNews Inc.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorNews Inc. (“InvestorNews”), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all material information concerning the Company, including important disclosure and risk factors associated with the Company, its business and an investment in its securities. InvestorNews offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This interview and any transcriptions or reproductions thereof (collectively, this “presentation”) does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities in the Company. The information in this presentation is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to updating, completion or revision, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any information herein. This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. This presentation should not be considered as the giving of investment advice by the Company or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors. Each person to whom this presentation is made available must make its own independent assessment of the Company after making such investigations and taking such advice as may be deemed necessary. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on SedarPlus.ca and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.




John Passalacqua on First Phosphate’s Strategic Collaboration with Sun Chemical

In an Investor.Coffee interview series hosted by Jack Lifton, Co-Chairman of the Critical Minerals Institute (CMI), and guest John Passalacqua, CEO and Director of First Phosphate Corp.‘s (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0), Jack commends John for First Phosphate’s exceptional operation and strategic alliance recently announced with Sun Chemical Corporation.

The discussion includes details surrounding First Phosphates’ innovative approach to the mining and production of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.

John emphasized the importance of integrating the mining process within the supply chain for effective production. First Phosphate’s business model rests on three pillars: mining and producing phosphate concentrate, transforming this concentrate into purified phosphoric acid—a precursor to LFP batteries, and finally producing LFP cathode active material. The partnership with Sun Chemical is pivotal in this third stage. Sun Chemical, backed by the DIC Group with a substantial market cap, brings invaluable expertise in industrial production, similar to the requirements of the LFP industry.

Sun Chemical’s existing facilities in Michigan and globally offer significant advantages, such as saving time and capital expenditure, given the pre-existing infrastructure and logistics. This partnership allows First Phosphate to focus on technology selection, client engagement, and research and development. The collaboration addresses the unique challenges of producing LFP batteries in North America, including differing environmental standards and the need for localization.

Jack highlighted the growing market preference for LFP batteries, noting their ease of production compared to other types due to the lack of need for cobalt and nickel. He praised First Phosphate’s role in establishing a domestic supply chain for LFP cathode materials in the United States, potentially making them a key supplier for North American OEM automotive businesses. Jack remarked on the synergy between First Phosphate and Sun Chemical, where both parties contribute essential skills and resources.

John concluded by acknowledging his team’s hard work and the strong partnership with Sun Chemical, underscoring the mutual respect and collaboration driving the venture’s success.

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About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the LFP battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in responsible manner and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

To learn more about First Phosphate Corp., click here

Disclaimer: First Phosphate Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorNews Inc.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorNews Inc. (“InvestorNews”), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all material information concerning the Company, including important disclosure and risk factors associated with the Company, its business and an investment in its securities. InvestorNews offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This interview and any transcriptions or reproductions thereof (collectively, this “presentation”) does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities in the Company. The information in this presentation is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to updating, completion or revision, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any information herein. This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. This presentation should not be considered as the giving of investment advice by the Company or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors. Each person to whom this presentation is made available must make its own independent assessment of the Company after making such investigations and taking such advice as may be deemed necessary. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on SedarPlus.ca and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.




Dan Blondal on how Nano One’s Partnership with Sumitomo Paves the Way for Sustainable Cathode Materials for Electric Vehicles

In a recent InvestorNews interview, host Brandon Colwell spoke with Dan Blondal, Founder, CEO, and Director of Nano One Materials Corp. (TSX: NANO), about Nano One’s collaboration agreement and $16.9 million strategic investment from Sumitomo Metal Mining. Dan emphasized the importance of this partnership, highlighting Sumitomo’s position as one of the world’s leading vertically integrated miner, refiner and producer of cathode active materials.  

Dan goes on to explain the uniqueness of Nano One’s One-Pot process, which eliminates the need for chemical intermediates and Sulphate waste streams when producing cathode active materials. Dan discusses how this eco-friendly and simplified approach has garnered the interest of major players like Sumitomo and Rio Tinto, as well as OEMs looking to streamline their supply chains and reduce environmental impact.

Dan outlined their plans to focus on their operations in Candiac, Quebec, where they acquired Johnson Matthey’s lithium iron phosphate (LFP) facility. Dan discusses how the experienced team there, along with the one-pot process, positions Nano One to supply the automotive industry efficiently and sustainably. Dan further adds that Sumitomo’s equity investment will help drive piloting and process improvement, fostering integration with Sumitomo’s LFP ambitions worldwide.

Dan discusses how LFP will play a pivotal role in the mass adoption of electric vehicles, as it offers lower cost and improved cyclability, making it a suitable choice for affordable, smaller batteries. He pointed out that China’s LFP market share is already significant, and this trend is expected to extend globally, driven by the mass-market electric vehicle and energy storage sectors.

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About Nano One Materials Corp.

Nano One Materials Corp. (Nano One) is a clean technology company with a patented, scalable and low carbon intensity industrial process for the low-cost production of high-performance lithium-ion battery cathode materials. With strategic collaborations and partnerships, including automotive OEMs and strategic industry supply chain companies like BASF, Umicore and Rio Tinto. Nano One’s technology is applicable to electric vehicles, energy storage, and consumer electronics, reducing costs and carbon intensity while improving environmental impact. Nano One aims to pilot and demonstrate its technology as turn-key production solutions for license, joint venture, and independent production opportunities, leveraging Canadian talent and critical minerals for emerging markets in North America, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific region. Nano One has received funding from SDTC and the Governments of Canada and British Columbia.

To learn more about Nano One Materials Corp., click here

Disclaimer: Nano One Materials Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorNews Inc.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorNews Inc. (“InvestorNews”), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all material information concerning the Company, including important disclosure and risk factors associated with the Company, its business and an investment in its securities. InvestorNews offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This interview and any transcriptions or reproductions thereof (collectively, this “presentation”) does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities in the Company. The information in this presentation is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to updating, completion or revision, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any information herein. This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. This presentation should not be considered as the giving of investment advice by the Company or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors. Each person to whom this presentation is made available must make its own independent assessment of the Company after making such investigations and taking such advice as may be deemed necessary. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on SedarPlus.ca and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.




First Phosphate’s John Passalacqua on the significance of securing a LOI for $170M from EXIM

In a recent InvestorNews interview hosted by Tracy Weslosky, First Phosphate Corp.‘s (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0) CEO and Director, John Passalacqua, talks about their recent news release on securing a letter of interest for up to USD $170 million from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). Highlighting the significance of this development, John explains how it aligns perfectly with the critical minerals strategy to produce phosphate and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries in North America.

John emphasized the non-dilutive nature of the EXIM financing and how the credit line is mostly guaranteed towards the purchase of US goods and services by First Phosphate to develop their project in Quebec, Canada.

The timing couldn’t be better, as First Phosphate recently signed an MOU with American Battery Factory Inc. for the onshoring of up to 40,000 tonnes of LFP Cathode Active Material production in North America. John explains how the EXIM line of credit will play a pivotal role in realizing their ambitious vision of producing LFP Cathode Active Material for North American battery manufacturers.

To access this interview, click here

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About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, in responsible manner and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

To learn more about First Phosphate Corp., click here

Disclaimer: First Phosphate Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorNews Inc.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorNews Inc. (“InvestorNews”), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all material information concerning the Company, including important disclosure and risk factors associated with the Company, its business and an investment in its securities. InvestorNews offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This interview and any transcriptions or reproductions thereof (collectively, this “presentation”) does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or purchase any securities in the Company. The information in this presentation is provided for informational purposes only and may be subject to updating, completion or revision, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any information herein. This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. This presentation should not be considered as the giving of investment advice by the Company or any of its directors, officers, agents, employees or advisors. Each person to whom this presentation is made available must make its own independent assessment of the Company after making such investigations and taking such advice as may be deemed necessary. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on SedarPlus.ca and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.




Focused on a more sustainable future for North America’s LFP battery industry, First Phosphate receives an LOI for up to $170M from EXIM

The realm of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries is evolving rapidly, with the focus shifting towards sustainable solutions and strategic planning. And First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0) has been making headlines recently, with strategic decisions and significant investments that stand to reshape the North American lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery landscape. Here’s a quick roundup of what’s been happening:

A Potential $170M Financing Boost from EXIM:
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) has shown its interest in First Phosphate by handing over a Letter of Interest (LOI). This LOI symbolizes potential financing to the tune of USD $170 million. The capital is earmarked for the purchase of equipment from the U.S. and developing a strategic reserve of purified phosphoric acid (PPA) – a critical ingredient for the burgeoning North American LFP battery industry. However, it’s worth noting that the LOI is not an assurance. EXIM will undertake a customary review before locking in any financing.

Teaming Up with American Battery Factory:
Diving deep into the LFP battery world, First Phosphate Corp. and American Battery Factory Inc. have joined forces. Their mission? To establish the production of up to 40,000 tonnes of LFP cathode active material (CAM) annually right here in North America. Set to go full throttle by 2028, this partnership sees First Phosphate at the heart of it, supplying essential raw materials and orchestrating logistics.

Economic Viability of Lac à l’Orignal Property:
Adding another feather to their cap, First Phosphate publicized its Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for its property in Quebec – the Lac à l’Orignal. This study emphasizes the potential benefits of open pit mining with a prime focus on producing phosphate concentrate. Confirming their earlier disclosures in July 2023, this PEA (readily available on SEDAR+ and the company’s website) sheds light on the mineral resource potential of the site.

As First Phosphate Corp. solidifies its position in the Quebec landscape, their unwavering commitment to eco-conscious, superior phosphate supply chain promises a brighter, more sustainable future for North America’s LFP battery industry.




Collaboration Deal with Sumitomo, Nano One to Boost LFP Cathode Production in Canada

Nano One Materials Corp. (TSX: NANO) operates the sole North American lithium iron phosphate (LFP) production facility located in Candiac, Quebec, with plans to convert the existing facility to the One-Pot process for production up to 2,000tpa by the end of 2024. The company will expand the production in Quebec to meet demand and its business model incorporates licensing and joint ventures for global expansion.

In an announcement on September 14, 2023, Nano One reported significant progress in demonstrating full commercial scale volumes from the Candiac facility. The company states:

“Recent One-Pot trials at the Candiac plant have yielded LFP at commercial scale with results mirroring lab performance. Transitioning to full commercial size reactors, Nano One’s LFP is ready for Q4 customer evaluations. Moreover, installation and optimization of the 200tpa reactors are ongoing.”

Source: Nano One company presentation

Additionally, Nano One recently announced a collaboration agreement with global cathode materials giant Sumitomo Metal Mining on September 25, 2023. This announcement included a strategic equity investment of C$16.9 million commitment and will undoubtedly provide potential opportunities in sales, licensing, and partnership opportunities. Notably, Sumitomo is a supplier of materials to Panasonic which in turn supplies Tesla with battery cells which shows the quality of their client lists.

Sumitomo’s established role in the sector as a leading miner, refiner, and cathode active materials producer solidifies the significance of this collaboration.

With global trends leaning towards the electrification of transport and clean energy, the demand for batteries and cathode materials is surging. Forecasts predict the cathode market in North America and Europe alone to reach US$85 billion by 2035, presenting unprecedented opportunities for emerging market players.

Nano One’s Business Strategy

While Nano One’s strategy remains versatile, the primary focus will be LFP production initially in Canada at the Candiac facility. Its business model includes licensing and joint ventures with partners for global expansion in jurisdictions like the US, Europe, and Asia.

In Conclusion

Nano One’s evolution from a minor participant to a significant player in the cathode materials sector is evident. Collaborations with industry leaders like Sumitomo, Rio Tinto and VW place them prominently on the map. The company currently boasts a market cap of C$320 million.




John Passalacqua on the First Phosphate MOU with NorFalco, a Division of Glencore Canada

In a recent interview between Tracy Weslosky of InvestorIntel and John Passalacqua, CEO and Director of First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0), viewers gain deeper insight into the recently announced MOU with NorFalco, a division of Glencore Canada. This collaboration is strategic as NorFalco provides access to sulfuric acid, a crucial element in the production of purified phosphoric acid. Purified phosphoric acid is a vital precursor to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and reflects the significant role this partnership may play in First Phosphate’s plans to produce purified phosphate for LFP battery production in North America.

John goes on to provide an update on their solventless, environmentally friendly phosphate concentration pilot plant. John discusses that the plant has proven to be capable of recovering 91.4% of phosphate-bearing apatite to produce a super high grade phosphate concentrate that is almost 41% pure. John adds that this is, “the world’s highest form of cleanliness of a phosphate.” John further says that the pilot plant has produced over 900 kg of apatite concentrate which was sent to Prayon SA, Europe’s largest producer of purified phosphoric acid, for testing and production.

Providing an update on First Phosphate’s portfolio of phosphate assets in Quebec, John discusses how they are progressing towards establishing the Port of Saguenay and the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean region of Quebec as “the LFP Battery Valley of North America.”

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About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, at full ESG standard and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

To learn more about First Phosphate Corp., click here

Disclaimer: First Phosphate Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorIntel Corp.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorIntel Corp., (IIC), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all the material information concerning the “Company” being interviewed. IIC offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on Sedar.com and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.

If you have any questions surrounding the content of this interview, please contact us at +1 416 792 8228 and/or email us direct at [email protected].




John Passalacqua on First Phosphate’s Position as a Key Supplier to the LFP Battery Market for EVs

In this InvestorIntel interview, Tracy Weslosky talks with First Phosphate Corp.’s (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0) CEO and Director John Passalacqua about the growing mass market adoption of LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries globally in the Electric Vehicle (EV) industry.

With EV manufacturers such as Tesla in their Model 3 and Model Y now using LFP batteries in their vehicles to reduce cost, John goes on to provide an update on First Phosphate’s deposit in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada.

With a purity 33% higher than the current world’s standard, John discusses how 90% of First Phosphate’s resource can be converted into purified, battery-grade, phosphoric acid allowing them to focus primarily on the LFP battery industry. Phosphoric acid is a critical component in LFP batteries.

John also provides an update on First Phosphate’s LFP production technology licensing agreement with Integrals Power Limited. Highlighting the benefits of Integrals Power’s technology, including its suitability for colder temperatures and different production types, John discusses how purified phosphoric acid and iron sulfate from First Phosphate’s deposits will be used for LFP battery production, targeting the emerging North American EV industry.

To access the full InvestorIntel interview, click here

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About First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate is a mineral development company fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at a high purity level, at full ESG standard, and with a low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to vertically integrate from the mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery-grade LFP cathode active material emanating from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds over 1,500 sq. km of royalty-free district-scale land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate properties consist of rare anorthosite igneous phosphate rock that generally yields high-purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

To learn more about First Phosphate Corp., click here

Disclaimer: First Phosphate Corp. is an advertorial member of InvestorIntel Corp.

This interview, which was produced by InvestorIntel Corp., (IIC), does not contain, nor does it purport to contain, a summary of all the material information concerning the “Company” being interviewed. IIC offers no representations or warranties that any of the information contained in this interview is accurate or complete.

This presentation may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and assumptions of the management of the Company as of the date made. They are inherently susceptible to uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual events/results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that the Company does not know about now or that it currently deems immaterial, may also adversely affect the Company’s business or any investment therein.

Any projections given are principally intended for use as objectives and are not intended, and should not be taken, as assurances that the projected results will be obtained by the Company. The assumptions used may not prove to be accurate and a potential decline in the Company’s financial condition or results of operations may negatively impact the value of its securities. Prospective investors are urged to review the Company’s profile on Sedar.com and to carry out independent investigations in order to determine their interest in investing in the Company.

If you have any questions surrounding the content of this interview, please contact us at +1 416 792 8228 and/or email us direct at [email protected].




First Phosphate Unlocking High-Purity Phosphate for the Rapidly Expanding EV LFP Battery Industry

Lithium iron phosphate (“LFP”) batteries are rapidly gaining market share

A major trend in the world of batteries and electric vehicles is the move towards lithium-iron phosphate (“LFP”) batteries. Not only do they cost less than rival nickel manganese cobalt (“NMC”) batteries, but they last approximately 2-times longer and are much safer (almost zero risk of fire).

The one drawback is their energy density, meaning an electric car’s range with LFP is less than the comparable NMC batteries. However, advancements in LFP technology now mean a base model (rear-wheel drive) Tesla Model 3 with LFP batteries has an EPA range estimate of 272 miles or 438 kilometers. That range is more than enough range for most people.

This explains why LFP battery sales are surging globally and now account for close to 30% market share. Most auto OEMs in China offer LFP battery EVs and globally Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA), Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), Volkswagen AG (Xetra: VOW3 | OTCPK: VWAGY), Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIVN), Mercedes-Benz Group AG (Xetra: MBG | OTCPK: MBGAF), Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd. (KRX: A0053850 | OTC: HYMTF), and others are also recently embracing the technology.

FIGURE 1: Tesla Model 3 RWD comes with an LFP battery

Source: Tesla website

The IEA Global EV Outlook 2023 states:

Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode chemistries have reached their highest share in the past decade. This trend is driven mainly by the preferences of Chinese OEMs. Around 95% of the LFP batteries for electric LDVs went into vehicles produced in China, and BYD alone represents 50% of demand. Tesla accounted for 15%, and the share of LFP batteries used by Tesla increased from 20% in 2021 to 30% in 2022…….LFP batteries contrast with other chemistries in their use of iron and phosphorus rather than the nickel, manganese and cobalt found in NCA and NMC batteries. The downside of LFP is that the energy density tends to be lower than that of NMC. LFP batteries also contain phosphorus, which is used in food production. If all batteries today were LFP, they would account for nearly 1% of current agricultural phosphorus use by mass, suggesting that conflicting demands for phosphorus may arise in the future as battery demand increases.

In the next part of the article, we shift our focus to a company poised to supply the phosphate (“P”) in LFP batteries.

First Phosphate Corp.

First Phosphate Corp. (CSE: PHOS | FSE: KD0) is the only publicly-listed mineral development company that is fully dedicated to extracting and purifying phosphate for the production of cathode active material for the LFP battery industry.

The Company plans to vertically integrate from the mine source directly into the supply chains of major North American LFP battery producers that require battery-grade LFP cathode active material.

First Phosphate has more than 1,500 square kilometers (370,000 acres) of royalty-free land claims in the Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean Region of Quebec, Canada. The claims contain rare ‘anorthosite igneous phosphate’ rock that generally yields high-purity phosphate material devoid of high concentrations of harmful elements.

First Phosphate states:

95% of the World’s Phosphate is found in heavy metal laden Sedimentary Rock.

Only 4% of the World’s Phosphate is found in Clean Igneous Carbonatite Rock.

Only 1% of the World’s Phosphate is found in Even Cleaner Igneous Anorthosite, found mostly in Quebec, Canada.

This means that First Phosphate has a rare type of phosphate and hence a first mover advantage to become a western supplier of pure phosphate for the LFP cathode manufacturers.

Lac à l’Orignal, Mirepoix, Vanel Trilogy flagship project

First Phosphate’s flagship project (Lac à l’Orignal, Mirepoix, Vanel Trilogy) has an Indicated pit-constrained Mineral Resource of 15.8 million tonnes (Mt) at grades of 5.18% P2O5 (phosphorus pentoxide), 4.23% TiO2 (titanium dioxide), and 23.90% Fe2O3 (iron oxide) and an Inferred pit-constrained Mineral Resource of 33.2 Mt at grades of 5.06% P2O5, 4.16% TiO2 and 22.55% Fe2O3.

There is also resource upside potential at the Project and with more than 1500 km2 of additional phosphate-bearing land claims.

Metallurgical test work indicates an anticipated apatite grade of at least 38% P2O5 at over 90% recovery. The Lac à l’Orignal Deposit contains very low levels of potentially hazardous components, such as arsenic, heavy metals, and radioactive elements.

The Project site is accessible and usable in all four seasons, with heavy-haul road access, and is 140 km driving distance from the deep water, Port of Saguenay. There is access to clean Quebec hydroelectricity.

First Phosphate plans to develop midstream phosphate refining (purification) and LFP cathode active material production at the Port of Saguenay in Quebec.

The Company is currently working on its Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”).

FIGURE 2: First Phosphate Corp.’s vertically integrated production plan to produce LFP cathode active material

Source: First Phosphate Corp. company presentation

FIGURE 3: Reasons to buy First Phosphate Corp.

Source: First Phosphate Corp. company presentation

Closing remarks

The trend towards a greater market share of LFP batteries used in EVs and energy storage is extremely strong.

In the past, the LFP demand and supply chain was entirely in China. This changed significantly in 2022 and continues to gain momentum in 2023 with almost all major Western auto OEMs embracing LFP battery technology for their standard-range electric cars.

Due to issues surrounding LFP patents, the West was largely unable to manufacture its own LFP batteries, but this has now changed. New LFP cathode plants are now being planned and soon will be built in the West. This includes Ford’s recently announced US$3.5 billion plan to build an LFP battery facility in the USA licensing CATL’s technology.

The high-purity phosphate supply chain will need to try to keep pace with these changes. Leading the charge is First Phosphate, trading on a market cap of C$21 million. Be sure to take a look at this company, preferably sooner rather than later.




Quebec’s $6.7 billion Plan for a Green Economy is a huge boost for energy storage and EVs

While Quebec Canada is known for its French influence and pro-mining sector, it is starting to become well known for its support for pro-green policies. Just recently the Quebec Government announced their $6.7 billion Plan for a Green Economy (2030 PGE).

As a part of the 2030 PGE, two of the most interesting announcements were Hydro-Quebec’s move towards energy storage and Quebec’s decision to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered cars from 2035. All of these recent Quebec pro-green policies are very positive for the energy storage, EV and battery markets; and also for the battery metal (and EV metal) miners; especially those with projects in Quebec.

A summary of the Quebec Government’s $6.7 billion Plan for a Green Economy (2030 PGE)

Source

Hydro-Québec’s move towards energy storage using LFP batteries

On December 9, 2020, it was reported that Hydro-Québec announced the launching of a new subsidiary that specializes in energy storage systems in a bid to help speed up development of renewable power and commercialize technology it has developed over four decades.

A Reuters report quotes: “Hydro-Québec, Canada’s largest electricity producer, on Wednesday entered the fast-growing market for storing renewable energy, where it could face competition from the likes of Tesla……Hydro-Québec aims to capture 10% of a niche market expected to reach $3 billion in the next 10 years.”

Hydro-Quebec’s new EVLO subsidiary will design, sell and operate storage systems aimed at other utilities, commercial and industrial markets for medium-and-large-scale storage. They intend to initially focus on North America and Europe.

Hydro-Québec is using lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP). LFP battery is a type of lithium-ion battery using LiFePO₄ as the cathode material, and a graphite based anode. It means there is no use of nickel or cobalt, but still uses lithium and graphite.

Quebec to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered cars from 2035

The Quebec banning of ‘new’ gasoline cars from 2035 should mean that starting from 2035, 100% of new car buyers will buy electric vehicles (EVs). Of course EVs will be wildly popular well before then, especially post 2023 when they should hit purchase price parity with gasoline or diesel cars.

The Quebec Government stated: “….the 2030 Plan for a Green Economy (2030 PGE) along with its first implementation plan covering 2021-2026, backed by a budget of $6.7 billion over five years. The magnitude of the amounts earmarked for this electrification and climate change framework policy is indicative of the government’s intent to make Québec a leader in the green economy by building on its major strength: its clean electricity.”

Again this is another huge boost to the EV & battery manufacturers as well as the EV and battery metal miners. In the case of EVs, NMC (nickel, manganese, and cobalt) and NCA (nickel, cobalt, and aluminum) cathode batteries are currently the most popular in western markets as they offer the best energy densities. Lithium electrolyte and graphite based anodes are the usual other battery metals. Added to this would be the producers of rare earths neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) used in EV motors. We should also add in copper as copper is integrally involved with clean energy and EVs. Finally, any companies that work in renewable energy and in particular emissions reductions.

Some potential winners from Quebec’s support for energy storage and EVs

  • Hydro-Quebec as an energy storage designer, seller and operator. Also their suppliers of LFP batteries.
  • Potentially any Quebec based cathode, anode or battery manufacturers and/or EV manufacturers.
  • Quebec based battery metal miners – Lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, graphite, and aluminum.
  • Energy storage and EV suppliers and miners, ideally in Canada and perhaps USA.
  • Companies working in the pro-green economy sector.

Some companies that we follow at InvestorIntel that focus on the above areas include: Appia Energy Corp. (CSE: API | OTCQB: APAAF), Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. (TSX: AVL | OTCQB: AVLNF), Canada Silver Cobalt Works Inc. (TSXV: CCW | OTCQB: CCWOF), CBLT Inc. (TSXV: CBLT), Critical Elements Lithium Corporation (TSXV: CRE | OTCQX: CRECF), dynaCERT Inc. (TSX: DYA | OTCQX: DYFSF), Exro Technologies Inc. (TSXV: EXRO | OTCQB: EXROF), Global Energy Metals Corporation (TSXV: GEMC | OTCQB: GBLEF), Ideanomics Inc. (NASDAQ: IDEX), Imperial Mining Group Ltd. (TSXV: IPG), Kodiak Copper Corp. (TSXV: KDK), Nano One Materials Corp. (TSXV: NNO), Neo Lithium Corp. (TSXV: NLC | OTCQX: NTTHF), Neo Performance Materials Inc. (TSX: NEO), Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc. (TSXV: NOU | OTCQX: NMGRF), Search Minerals Inc. (TSXV: SMY), Vital Metals Limited (ASX: VML), and ZEN Graphene Solutions Ltd. (TSXV: ZEN).

Quebec Canada is supporting energy storage and electric vehicles etc with a $6.7 billion plan for a green economy

If you are a Quebec or Canadian company focused on the green energy sector then InvestorIntel would be happy to hear from you to see if we can get your company some greater exposure. Together we can make a better world.