Sparc Technologies is exploring local manufacturing opportunities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of a new partnership with UK-based graphene producer Levidian Nanosystems to advance the commercialisation of graphene-enhanced protective coatings in the Middle East.
According to an ASX announcement by Sparc, the companies have signed a non-exclusive memorandum of understanding (MoU) covering the development, production and commercialisation of Sparc’s ecosparc® additives for protective and industrial coatings across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
Under the proposed arrangement, Sparc will develop ecosparc® formulations and conduct testing in its ISO-accredited laboratories, while Levidian will supply graphene and provide technical support. The companies will also work with coatings manufacturers and end users on qualification testing, field trials and product specifications.
The partnership includes an assessment of the feasibility of manufacturing ecosparc® additives locally in the UAE within 24 months, subject to an agreed business case. The companies aim to establish a binding joint development or commercial supply agreement within 12 months.
Sparc Managing Director Nick O’Loughlin said the collaboration could support the company’s efforts to expand its presence in the region.
“Sparc is very pleased to be deepening our collaboration with Levidian to market and potentially produce ecosparc® in the Middle East,” O’Loughlin said.
Levidian CEO Alex Holden said the partnership could help expand the industrial use of graphene-based materials, citing demand from infrastructure owners and industrial operators for materials designed to improve performance and extend asset life.
“We’re particularly excited by the potential to build a regional value chain, from graphene production through to formulated products and, ultimately, local manufacturing,” Holden said.
The companies will jointly plan potential commercial arrangements, including manufacturing and distribution, quality requirements, market volumes and pricing. A joint technical committee will meet monthly to review progress.
The MoU follows Levidian’s supply of graphene for testing in ecosparc® coatings. Sparc said the Middle East protective and marine coatings market is estimated to exceed 200 million litres by 2030, citing industry research from Orr & Boss in 2025.
The proposed UAE manufacturing activity remains subject to feasibility assessment and an agreed business case.
The content of this article is based on information supplied by Sparc Technologies Limited. For more information, please refer to the official company announcement and communications from Sparc. Please consult a licensed and/or registered professional in this area before making any decisions based on the content of this article.
