OrientZirconic(SZ:002167) Chang Jiang Shang Bao·2025-11-26 01:26Core Viewpoint - Dongfang Zirconium plans to invest significantly in new energy battery-related projects, focusing on the production of high-purity zirconium compounds to enhance its competitive edge and profitability [1][2]. Investment Project - The company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Qinyang Dong Zirconium New Materials Technology Co., Ltd., intends to invest 737 million yuan to establish a project with an annual production capacity of 60,000 tons of battery-grade zirconium oxychloride and 12,000 tons of high-purity zirconium-hafnium separation oxides [2][3]. - The project will be constructed in two phases: the first phase will produce 35,000 tons/year of high-purity zirconium oxychloride, and the second phase will produce 25,000 tons/year of high-purity zirconium oxychloride and 12,000 tons/year of oxides, including 2,000 tons/year of nuclear-grade zirconium [2]. Market Position and Strategy - Dongfang Zirconium aims to accelerate its layout in emerging application fields supported by national policies, enhancing its core competitiveness and profitability through this new project [2][3]. - The company has been actively developing downstream applications for zirconium products, with its zirconium oxide powder already being used as an additive in ternary cathode materials and gaining preliminary recognition from solid-state battery material manufacturers [3]. Research and Development - The company has invested in R&D, with expenditures of 56.53 million yuan, 63.24 million yuan, 74.28 million yuan, and 49.99 million yuan from 2021 to 2024, and 46.79 million yuan in the first three quarters of 2025 [4][5]. - Dongfang Zirconium holds 20 invention patents and 76 utility model patents, having developed a series of new products and processes, including high-purity ultra-fine zirconium dioxide and high-performance composite zirconium [5]. Financial Performance - In the first three quarters of 2025, the company reported a net profit of 38.68 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 193.66%, marking a turnaround from previous losses [1][6]. - The company’s revenue for the same period was 927 million yuan, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 24.86% [6].