New Case Study | Minespider: Building Responsible Battery Supply Chains with Blockchain

Clinical Assistant Professor Michael Carrillo and Clinical Professor and Director of the David F. Miller Retail Center Joel Davis collaborated on a new case study available through Ivey Publishing, one of the most prominent case publishers.

The case focuses on Minespider, a blockchain-based traceability software helping to collect and communicate key supply chain data, and its role in developing responsible battery supply chains through blockchain technology.

Specifically, the case addresses managing critical mineral supply chains by focusing on cobalt used in lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries and the impact of mining operations in Central Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Minespider, a Berlin-based start-up, tackled these issues with a blockchain platform. Following blockchain’s evolution since Bitcoin in 2009 and Ethereum in 2015, Minespider developed the digital battery passport (DBP). Minespider’s broad industry application highlighted its potential for tracking materials, ethical sourcing, and supply chain transparency. In 2017, Minespider focused on understanding the market, identifying ideal customers for their unique blockchain solution and partnerships, optimizing supply chain management, and showcasing blockchain’s value in this sector in order to make the most impact.

See the complete case study from Ivey Publishing.