TMC and PAMCO Successfully Produce High-Grade Nickel Alloy from Deep-Seafloor Nodules

TMC and PAMCO have successfully demonstrated the production of high-grade nickel-copper-cobalt alloy and manganese silicate using polymetallic nodules collected from the deep seafloor. The 2,000-tonne sample, gathered during TMC's 2022 test mining, was processed at PAMCO’s facility in Hachinohe, Japan, over a 14-day continuous smelting campaign.

This achievement marks a significant step toward commercial production, validating TMC’s approach of integrating nodule processing into existing metallurgical operations without the need for new infrastructure. The successful trial supports TMC’s plan to submit an application for commercial production in international waters.

The feasibility program, spanning 18 months, provided critical process data and operational insights, further de-risking TMC’s project. By leveraging PAMCO’s established processing capabilities, TMC aims to develop a cost-effective and sustainable supply of battery metals.