• Two Chinese 'Invention Patents' granted for LMFP material design and synthesis
• Commenced in-house development of LMR cathode materials
• Received EOI from Taza Metal Technologies to purchase up to 5 energy-efficient kilns

Firebird Metals Limited (ASX: FRB) announced key developments in its manganese-rich battery strategy during the September 2025 quarter. The company secured two Chinese 'Invention Patents' for its proprietary lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) material design and synthesis, with four additional patents accepted into the national review process. These patents underpin Firebird's co-synthesis pathway that integrates high-purity manganese sulphate (HPMSM) with manganese iron phosphate (MFP) pre-cathode active material, designed to deliver lower cost and high-quality LMFP cathode materials. Firebird also commenced an in-house development program for lithium-manganese-rich (LMR) cathode materials, targeting solid-state and other high-energy applications. The ~18-month program leverages the company's existing HPMSM and LMFP capabilities. Additionally, Firebird received an Expression of Interest from Taza Metal Technologies to purchase up to five of Firebird's energy-efficient calcining kilns, with indicative terms implying over US$10m in revenue and ~15% gross margin for Firebird. The company also announced a A$6 million placement to accelerate its HPMSM/LMFP execution plan, including establishing a Western Australian demonstration R&D centre and advancing its China operations.

Firebird expects to convert the EOI from Taza Metal Technologies into a definitive purchase agreement for up to five energy-efficient kilns before January 2026, with potential revenue over US$10m and ~15% gross margin.

Firebird will focus on executing the A$6 million placement program, converting the kiln EOI into a confirmed order, and continuing LMFP/MFP sample preparation and engagement with Chinese and Western cathode market participants in the December 2025 quarter.