Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd plans to deploy around Rs 1,300 crore in capital expenditure over the next year, as the speciality chemicals maker accelerates investments in lithium-ion battery materials, carbon-based advanced materials and other high-value products, said CMD and CEO Anurag Choudhary. Himadri has already outlined Rs 1,125 crore capex for its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) project, Rs 170 crore for super speciality carbon black and Rs 70 crore for a carbon nanotube project. Unlike companies that specialise in either cathode or anode materials, Himadri intends to develop capabilities across both sides of the battery ecosystem. "We are advancing our entry into premium speciality applications through Super Speciality Carbon Black (SSCB), leveraging our fully integrated carbon black platform. Supported by a proposed capex of Rs 170 crore, the project is targeted for commissioning in Q4FY28," Choudhary said.