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Highlights
- Collaboration aims to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate in the U.S.
- ReElement's advanced refining technology promises cost-effective solutions.
- Partnership supports the domestic supply chain for critical minerals.
American Resources Corporation, a leading resource company, has announced an important collaboration through its subsidiary, ReElement Technologies Corporation. This partnership with IRIS Metals Limited involves signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for downstream lithium conversion and the production of battery-grade lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE). This initiative follows the successful production of 6% spodumene concentrate (SC6) from IRIS's Beecher Lithium Project, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Peter Marks, Chairman of IRIS Metals, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting, "This collaboration is set to transform our concentrate into battery-grade lithium carbonate right here in the US, using homegrown technology and processes." This strategic alliance is poised to elevate IRIS from an exploration company to a near-term producer, reinforcing its commitment to developing a fully domestic supply chain for lithium.
Mark Jensen, CEO of ReElement Technologies, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of securing reliable lithium sources. "This aligns with ReElement's commitment to being a leading and sustainable producer of ultra-pure, refined rare earth and critical battery elements," he stated. The MOU aims to utilize ReElement's proprietary technology and processes to convert US-origin SC6 into battery-grade lithium carbonate within the United States, a significant step for both companies.
The Beecher project is already licensed for production, positioning IRIS as an emerging player in the lithium market. Meanwhile, ReElement is transitioning from its Customer Qualification Plant in Noblesville, Indiana, to a commercial-scale critical mineral refining facility at its 42-acre campus in Marion, Indiana. Together, these advancements create a robust foundation for becoming a domestic supplier of lithium carbonate, ensuring compliance with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and meeting the growing demand in the U.S. market.
This partnership is particularly timely, as the United States faces increasing pressure to secure its supply of critical minerals necessary for the electrification of the economy. By utilizing local resources and advanced refining techniques, the collaboration between ReElement and IRIS positions both companies to address national security needs and enhance the resilience of the domestic supply chain.
Looking ahead, the MOU sets the stage for further developments, including additional bulk testing and definitive discussions for commercialization and production ramp-up. IRIS Metals plans to begin domestic SC6 production in 2025, while ReElement gears up for large-scale operations in Marion, Indiana. These initiatives highlight a shared vision for establishing a self-sufficient lithium supply chain that supports the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.
