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Corrosion, costs, and clean energy collide as we sit down with Nick O’Loughlin, Managing Director of Sparc Technologies, to unpack a focused plan for real-world impact. We trace how a graphene-based additive called ecosparc® aims to make protective coatings tougher for critical steel assets, and why a pilot plant north of Adelaide could change the economics of green hydrogen by using light, not large amounts of electricity.

First, we dig into the coatings story. ecosparc® targets measurable gains in barrier performance, adhesion, and durability, designed to slot into existing formulations used on bridges, mining gear, and oil and gas infrastructure. Nick shares why trials with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance and the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse matter, and how recognition alongside Aramco at the Middle East Corrosion Conference signals technical credibility at the highest level. With a consolidated market of global coating manufacturers, Sparc is pursuing commercial agreements that could accelerate deployment once specifications are met. The goal: reach commercialisation by FY26 and scale through partners with worldwide reach.

Then we pivot to energy innovation through the Sparc Hydrogen joint venture with Fortescue and the University of Adelaide. The Roseworthy pilot is built and moving through commissioning to demonstrate photocatalytic water splitting—hydrogen production driven by light-activated catalysts with minimal electricity input. Nick explains how this approach addresses a core barrier in electrolysis economics, what success at pilot scale would mean for technology readiness, and how a strong data set could unlock global interest. Along the way, we talk about the complementary nature of these two bets: near-term revenue potential from coatings and a bold push in next-gen hydrogen.

If you’re tracking graphene in coatings, green hydrogen technologies, or ASX innovation stories, this conversation delivers clear milestones, partner validation, and timelines to watch. Subscribe, share with a colleague who lives in materials or energy, and leave a quick review with the question you want answered next.