Orom-Cross Graphite delivers strong results in US rocket test
Blencowe Resources’ graphite concentrate from its Orom-Cross Graphite Project in Uganda has been used in a rocket component testing programme in the United States (California), with the initial test firing successfully completed and early observations indicating encouraging performance in high-temperature applications.
The Company provided Orom-Cross graphite concentrates to American Energy Technologies Company (“AETC”) who manufactured mouldings designed for use in rocket propulsion nozzles, including defence-related test applications. These nozzles were developed to evaluate the replacement of a percentage of the synthetic graphite typically used in such components and to assess the suitability of Orom-Cross material in high-temperature environments.
A recent test firing programme was attended by representatives from Pluto Aerospace, Purdue University and various US Government Agencies alongside Blencowe’s Chief Operating Officer Iain Wearing. The programme successfully completed the planned test runs, and data is now being analysed by the parties involved. Blencowe expects to provide further updates as additional milestones are reached.
The testing application was conducted with Pluto Aerospace on its hypersonic sub-orbital rocket platform in the initial programme. Further testing is planned and, subject to programme scheduling and technical outcomes, orbital testing is expected in the latter half of 2026.
In parallel, AETC has also been testing graphite-based coatings applied to rocket fin components to evaluate durability under hypersonic conditions and icephobic properties (surfaces designed to repel ice, prevent ice formation, or significantly reduce ice adhesion), with potential applicability across military and civilian aircraft environments. While the recorded data remains under analysis, initial observational performance has been encouraging, and the Company will update the market as results become available.
