April 12, 2022
The parties agreed to create a research and development center to add value to the production of the strategic mineral.
SQM and the Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN) have formed a strategic alliance to advance the design, production, and recycling of lithium batteries, cathodes, and components in Antofagasta, a move that is not only significant for the region but also for the whole country.
The project, titled " Creation of a research and development pole in the lithium battery value chain ", will run from 2022 to 2030, generating economic, social, and environmental benefits for the Northern Region and Chile.
This strategic partnership between the private sector and academia implies collaboration and a long-term vision to add value to lithium production in Chile. The project will focus on developing science, technology, research, and innovation capabilities in the Antofagasta region.
The Faculty of Engineering and Geological Sciences of the UCN will lead the implementation of the project, which will consider the provision of the necessary scientific and technological equipment, as well as the development of the advanced human capital required in the research and development (R+D) line of this proposal.
Rodrigo Alda, Rector of the Universidad Católica del Norte, said that this partnership demonstrates that, when all stakeholders work together (universities, companies, and the public sector), extraordinary developments can be achieved from the regions.
"Let us not lose sight of the fact that the North Region is generous. We have lithium, copper, solar radiation, and large extensions of land. But above all, we have professionals: men and women determined to fight for a better world. A world that is healthier, cleaner, and has more opportunities", said the academic authority.
José Miguel Berguño, SQM's Senior VP of Corporate Services, stated that "the signing of this agreement, in collaboration with the UCN, will allow us to create the first lithium battery research center. The development of human capital is important for our company, especially in the region. That is why we are pleased to materialize our commitment to collaborate with academia, which aligns with our Sustainability Plan. This agreement offers us a great opportunity to gain experience and develop technology locally, regionally, and nationally while following global trends".
Rodrigo Sfeir, UCN's Vice-Rector for Research and Technological Development, said that the University has focused its efforts on developing the priority research areas, which are linked to the Northern Macro Zone’s needs, and especially the regions of Antofagasta and Coquimbo, where we are deployed.
"Therefore, this alliance between SQM and UCN is fundamental for the development of the Antofagasta region, as it contributes to the valorization of one of its strategic resources. The agreement will strengthen regional capabilities in research and development in the lithium value chain through the attraction and training of advanced human capital and the installation of innovative scientific and technological equipment," explained Sfeir.