Lincoln Minerals (ASX:LML) has entered into a collaboration agreement with SCN Canada to explore the use of graphite from its Kookaburra Graphite Project in South Australia for small modular nuclear reactors.
SCN, trading as StarCore Nuclear, is developing high-temperature gas-cooled reactor SMRs designed to provide safe, small-scale, carbon-free energy to remote communities worldwide.
Under the agreement, the two companies will jointly investigate potential commercial opportunities for Lincoln’s high-purity graphite in SMRs, including testwork, feasibility studies, and the definition of a commercial framework.
The collaboration aligns with Lincoln's strategy to identify high-value applications for its 12.8 million tonne graphite resource at 7.56% total graphitic carbon.
Lincoln CEO Chris Wilcox said, "Global investment in nuclear energy is rising to meet growing energy demand and reduce reliance on carbon-emitting sources. SMRs offer reliable, always-on clean energy, and there is substantial potential value in Lincoln’s 100% owned Kookaburra graphite. Partnering with SCN allows us to explore a pathway to commercialise these assets while maintaining focus on our Minbrie Copper Project."
The Kookaburra Graphite Project, located 35km north of Port Lincoln, benefits from near-surface, high-grade mineralisation and strong infrastructure access.
Previous studies have shown it can generate significant economic value and produce ultra-high-purity graphite suitable for both nuclear and battery applications.
Over the next 12 months, Lincoln and SCN will work together to define specific work programs, with scoping and feasibility studies targeted for completion by the end of 2026.