Graphite concentrate from the Blencowe Resources (BRES ) Orom-Cross graphite project in Uganda has been used in a rocket component testing programme in California, with the initial test firing successfully completed.
Early observations suggest encouraging performance from the Orom-Cross graphite in high-temperature applications.
Blencowe provided Orom-Cross graphite concentrates to American Energy Technologies Company which 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, as well as 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.
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, with potential applicability across military and civilian aircraft environments.
"These latest tests are an encouraging validation step to highlight the importance of high-quality graphite in specialist defence, aerospace and energy applications,” said Blencowe’s executive chairman Cameron Pearce.
“We thank AETC for their support in enabling real-world evaluation of Orom-Cross material. Proof that Orom-Cross product stands up to the most rigorous testing validates both the quality of our products as well as the use of graphite within these applications. Demonstrating performance in live rocket test conditions with various US Government agencies in attendance showcases Orom-Cross graphite at the highest levels. With further testing phases planned, including orbital testing expected in the latter half of 2026, we believe this supports higher-value offtake pathways beyond standard concentrate sales. These all help to continuously add more value to our overall Orom-Cross strategy and our commercial model."
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We already know from other partnerships that graphite from Orom-Cross is likely to have a wide variety of real-world applications. That it’s now being used in American rockets shows just how wide. This is good news not only because it provides a new potential route for off-take, but also more generally because selling into the US military and space programme will provide key credibility for Blencowe to other potential buyers.