Apple has struck a long-term deal with MP Materials—the only U.S. producer of rare earths and associated magnets—to secure a steady domestic supply of neodymium components for its devices. Under the agreement, Apple will source magnets from MP’s Texas facility and work alongside the company to expand recycling and production lines at the same site.
The two firms have spent nearly five years co-developing advanced recycling technologies that meet Apple’s stringent material standards. The upcoming lines will recover magnets from discarded electronics and remanufacture them into neodymium parts for future Apple products. In addition, the companies will explore next-generation magnetic materials and processing techniques.
Apple was an early adopter of recycled rare earths, introducing them in the Taptic Engine of the iPhone 11 back in 2019. Today, nearly all magnets used across its devices are made from 100% recycled rare earth elements. The new partnership with MP is part of Apple’s push to bolster long-term supply resilience.
The deal is valued at $500 million and forms part of Apple’s broader pledge to invest over $500 billion in U.S. industry. “American innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Apple,” said CEO Tim Cook. “Rare earth materials are essential to creating advanced technologies, and this partnership will help increase the supply of these vital materials in the United States.”
Despite mining around 45,000 tons of rare earths annually, the U.S. produces just 1,300 tons of metallic rare earths, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Most is shipped overseas, while more than 8,000 tons are imported—mainly from China. In April, Beijing halted exports of seven key rare earths to the U.S., including dysprosium and terbium. Though neodymium shipments continue, concerns over further disruptions remain.
BHP Group is divesting its 17% stake in the Kabanga nickel project, handing it over to Tanzanian partner Lifezone Metals for a deferred $83 million. Lifezone will now lead the project’s development, which includes a mining operation and a hydrometallurgical plant designed to produce about 65,000 tons of nickel per year.
Pending permits and financing, Lifezone expects to bring the project online within three years. The Kabanga site is a flagship for Tanzania’s efforts to boost domestic mineral processing. The country has already banned raw ore exports and plans to phase out concentrate exports by 2027.
With 44 million tons of ore grading 2.6% nickel, 0.3% cobalt, and 0.35% copper, Kabanga ranks among the world’s highest-grade undeveloped nickel sulfide deposits. Once the deal closes, Lifezone will control 84%, with the remaining 16% held by the Tanzanian government.
BHP’s departure highlights broader industry pressures. Global nickel prices have slumped over the past two years amid surging supply from Indonesia and flagging demand from EV battery makers. The downturn has already prompted BHP to suspend its West Musgrave and Western Australia nickel operations until at least 2027. Leaving Kabanga trims BHP’s exposure to a segment increasingly out of step with its profitability targets, while giving Lifezone room to attract partners and pursue low-cost production.
Vulcan Energy Resources is set to receive €186 million in public funding to support a low-carbon lithium project in Germany. The financial support—provided jointly by the federal government and the states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse—comes under the EU’s “Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework” and Germany’s own program to promote sustainable battery production.
The funding will go toward lithium extraction and conversion to lithium hydroxide at Vulcan’s planned facilities. Payouts will begin October 1 and be tied to the project’s actual spending over a three-year period.
Vulcan’s initiative is the only lithium project in Germany—and one of the few in the EU—nearing commercial scale. It supports the bloc’s goal of localizing supply chains for critical battery materials like lithium and cobalt. The company aims to produce 24,000 tons of lithium hydroxide annually by the end of 2026, enough to power 500,000 EVs per year.
The project involves extracting lithium from geothermal brine and supplying it directly to automakers. Vulcan already holds supply deals with Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Renault. Last year, it successfully produced lithium chloride of qualifying purity.
Elsewhere, Rock Tech is building a lithium hydroxide refinery near the German-Polish border, targeting startup in late 2026 or early 2027. Though it’s seeking €800 million in funding, Rock Tech hasn’t clarified how it will source raw materials. It owns a deposit in Canada’s Georgia Lake region with over 16 million tonnes of ore averaging 0.88–1% lithium, but may also seek feedstock on the global market.
Both ventures stand to benefit from the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act, adopted in 2023, which supports local mining and refining of strategic materials, including lithium and copper. If successful, these projects could help reduce Germany’s reliance on imported metals.
Silvercorp Metals is exploring a potential entry into Kazakhstan, targeting non-ferrous and precious metal assets. CEO Rui Feng and President Lon Shaver met with state investor Kazakh Invest in Astana to discuss cooperation. Azamat Kozhanov, Silvercorp’s deputy chairman, also attended.
The Canadian firm specializes in silver mining, with projects in China and Ecuador. Its interest in Kazakhstan reflects the country’s considerable silver potential. Silvercorp is also weighing the option of opening a local office to support regional growth.
Kazakhstan has drawn increased interest from global miners in recent years. In May, Australian company C29 Metals partnered with Bask International Group to explore for copper and gold. C29 is also advancing a uranium project in the Zhambyl region.
In July, Eurasia Mining—a British precious metals player—entered the Kazakh market via a listing on the Astana Stock Exchange. Its move hints at possible future investment in Kazakhstan’s gold or rare earth sectors, echoing a broader trend of Western and Asian miners tapping into the country’s resource base and strategic location.
Teck Resources has secured full permitting to proceed with a major expansion of the Highland Valley Copper mine in British Columbia—Canada’s largest open-pit copper operation. It’s one of the few mining projects in the country to receive comprehensive approval in recent years.
The mine currently ships copper and molybdenum concentrates under long-term deals, mainly to smelters in China and Japan. The expansion will unlock higher-grade ore and allow for upgrades to the processing plant to yield better-quality concentrates.
The company expects the project to generate over 4,000 jobs, including 1,500 permanent and nearly 3,000 contractor roles. The mine life will be extended through 2046, and projected returns are in line with shareholder expectations.
Capital spending is pegged at $1.54–1.76 billion between late 2025 and 2028, with construction slated to begin this August. Once completed, annual copper output is expected to average 132,000 tons.
The expansion supports Teck’s broader goal of doubling copper production by 2030. At the same time, the company is scaling up output at its Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile, aiming for 285,000–315,000 tons of copper concentrate annually. That site includes an open-pit mine, concentrator, port infrastructure, tailings system, and a 165-kilometer pipeline to the coast.
Teck forecasts total copper production in 2025 to reach between 470,000 and 525,000 tons, driven by rising demand in electrical, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.
Weekly Metals News Digest – July 14 – 18Last week’s news flow was dominated by developments in the United States, one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of metals. Against this backdrop, BHP Group announced a memorandum of understanding with Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) that sets the stage for wide-ranging collaboration in battery technology. According to BHP’s press release, the partners will examine ways to develop batteries for mining equipment and locomotives—together with fast-charging infrastructure—as well as stationary energy-storage systems. They will also study advanced battery-recycling options, all in support of BHP’s goal of net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse-gas emissions by 2050.
BHP emphasises that the venture will promote a circular economy by improving recycling processes, for example by integrating copper mines into more sustainable value chains. Notably, the company has never committed capital to lithium or rare-earth projects—materials essential for electric-vehicle batteries and wind-turbine magnets—because its investment strategy demands high margins and large markets. Lithium prices have plunged in recent years, and the rare-earth sector remains too small for a producer of BHP’s scale.
Even so, BHP’s Xplor accelerator is already supplying venture finance to junior explorers hunting for critical minerals such as nickel and copper across Europe, South America and North America. If lithium market conditions improve, or if rival Rio Tinto gains traction, BHP could still enter the lithium space—whether by backing explorers through Xplor or by making larger, as-yet undisclosed investments.
German non-ferrous group Aurubis has earmarked €1.7 billion for global expansion and will devote €740 million of that sum to a new US plant that will turn copper scrap into cathode copper. Government data show the United States smelts 850,000 tonnes of copper from ore and 40,000 tonnes from secondary feedstock, yet consumes 1.6 million tonnes, relying on imports from Chile, Canada, Mexico and Peru to bridge the gap. Paradoxically, the country exported almost 960,000 tonnes of copper scrap last year—41 percent of it to China.
Aurubis chief financial officer Steffen Hoffmann says the planned facility will be the first in the United States capable of converting heavily contaminated scrap into London Metal Exchange-grade cathodes. The investment is timed to coincide with a new 50 percent import duty on copper, due to take effect on 1 August after being announced by President Donald Trump. The tariff has already propelled Comex copper futures above US $12,500 per tonne, widening the premium over London prices and boosting the economic case for domestic recycling.
Long-term demand is robust: an average electric car contains 80 kilograms of copper, a marine wind turbine 40 kilograms, and a data centre about 30 tonnes, with its cabling replaced every three to five years. These applications will generate growing scrap flows, providing feedstock for Aurubis and for other recyclers that are almost certain to follow.
Canadian junior Ivanhoe Electric has completed the preliminary feasibility study for its Santa Cruz project in Arizona. Mining will use the room-and-pillar method, with a compact underground rail network that minimises diesel consumption. Surface processing will rely on heap leaching. The operation is designed for a 23-year life and annual output of 72,000 tonnes of copper cathode during its first 15 years.
Founded in 2021 by mining entrepreneur Robert Friedland, Ivanhoe Electric employs proprietary geophysical technologies to explore for copper, gold and other metals. After raising US $169 million in a 2024 Nasdaq debut, it now holds properties in Utah, Oregon and Montana alongside its Arizona flagship. The company has already invested more than US $100 million in drilling and plant design, and chief executive Taylor Melvin notes that the deposit benefits from existing road, rail, gas and power connections.
The plan is to begin mining next year and deliver first cathodes by end-2028—a pace rarely seen in an industry where development can drag on for decades. Ivanhoe forecasts operating costs of US $1.32 per pound, roughly one-quarter of today’s Comex price. The Comex premium over London has risen rapidly and now stands at US $1,800 per tonne. Yet only two US smelters treat copper ore, forcing miners to ship 29 percent of concentrates overseas, mainly to China. Permit hurdles have left the national industry dependent on foreign smelters even as domestic mine output declines.
Rio Tinto estimates a US $300 million hit from the US president’s decision to double aluminum-import tariffs to 50 percent. The group shipped 723,000 tonnes of primary aluminum to the United States in January–June 2025—about three-quarters of the output from its Canadian smelters.
A 25 percent tariff imposed in March had been offset by a jump in US Midwest regional premiums, but the June hike to 50 percent has not produced the same cushioning effect, even though premiums have risen 164 percent since January to US $1,279 per tonne. Buyers are increasingly turning to remelted scrap and billet, which are exempt. Further premium increases might cover the duty, but would also curb demand for primary metal.
Canada produced 3.3 million tonnes of primary aluminum last year, while US output was just 670,000 tonnes, pressured by high electricity costs. Canada nonetheless supplies nearly 60 percent of US aluminum imports; the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and China trail far behind.
Tariffs are part of Donald Trump’s broader strategy to bolster US non-ferrous metals. In early 2025, Century Aluminum launched plans for a new primary smelter after securing a US $500 million Department of Energy grant tied to legislation enacted under former president Joe Biden. Emirates Global Aluminium soon followed with a US $4 billion proposal for a 600,000-tonne US smelter—an announcement that coincided with the UAE’s broader commitment to channel US $200 billion into the US economy. Aluminum, indispensable to automotive production, food packaging and many other sectors, remains a strategic metal for Washington.
AngloGold Ashanti has agreed to acquire the Canadian company Augusta Gold for US $111 million in cash—28 percent above the previous day’s close and 37 percent above the 20-day average. AngloGold will also repay shareholder loans to Augusta Gold. The deal secures a foothold in Nevada’s promising Beatty district through the Reward project, the Bullfrog deposit and surrounding ground. “We believe these properties will not only cement our position in a key US gold region but will allow us to advance development under a comprehensive plan,” chief executive Alberto Calderon said.
Earlier this year, AngloGold shelved talks with Gold Fields on merging Ghana’s Tarkwa and Iduapriem mines after 16 months of negotiations and regulatory reviews, deciding that each company should focus on its own assets instead. The company has also agreed to sell its Brazilian mine Mineração Serra Grande to Aura Minerals for US $76 million plus a 3 percent royalty, payable quarterly. AngloGold describes Serra Grande as one of its costliest, least productive operations; recent efforts have centred on stabilising output and retiring an ageing tailings dam.
Operating on four continents, AngloGold is the world’s third-largest gold producer. Following a 2023 restructuring, it shifted its primary listing from Johannesburg to New York and moved its headquarters to Denver. It ended 2024 with production of 2.66 million troy ounces, or 82.7 tonnes, of gold.
Weekly Metals News Digest – July 7 – 11Copper grabbed the spotlight last week, following a surprise policy shift in the U.S. and fresh signs of trouble at production sites worldwide. Meanwhile, major lithium developments and structural shifts in non-ferrous metals pointed to a global industry in motion.
On July 1, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that a 50% tariff on copper imports would kick in August 1—sooner than the early 2025 rollout many had anticipated. The announcement, made on Trump’s social media platform, came with warnings about national security. Copper, he said, is essential to everything from semiconductors and lithium-ion batteries to hypersonic weapons. He called it “the second most important material for the Department of Defense” and blamed previous administrations for undermining domestic supply chains. The tariff, he insisted, would help correct that.
Copper inventories in the U.S. jumped after the news, with stockpiles reportedly hitting around 500,000 tons—mostly held in New Orleans and Port Panama City. While flows from certain regions are slowing, large volumes are still making their way into U.S. ports. Traders are now racing to manage cargoes already en route and weighing whether to rush new shipments. With the 50% duty coming in higher—and faster—than many had budgeted for, some buyers are said to be offering premiums of up to $400 per ton to fast-track deliveries. Some are even rerouting shipments originally headed to China. Routes through Hawaii and Puerto Rico are seeing renewed interest, given their potential to beat the tariff clock.
Still, a lot of details remain murky—chief among them: will in-transit cargoes be exempt? Price spreads between New York and London remain narrower than the tariff would suggest, reflecting lingering market hesitation. For now, traders are trying to hedge their bets between short-term costs and longer-term payoff.
While the policy is pitched as a boost for domestic output, scaling up copper production in the U.S. is a long-term challenge. In the short run, American industries will stay dependent on overseas supply—meaning higher costs for consumers or a potential squeeze in usage across manufacturing and infrastructure.
At present, the U.S. meets only about half of its own copper needs. Including recycled material, consumption stands at roughly 1.8 million tons a year—just one-eighth of what China uses. In 2024, Freeport-McMoRan produced 572,000 tons of copper in the U.S., while imports hit 810,000 tons. Most of those imports came from Chile (65%), followed by Canada (17%) and Peru (9%).
With the U.S. market tightening, copper could start piling up in Chile, Canada, Mexico, and Peru—the main exporters to American buyers. These countries may feel the fallout from the tariff more acutely than those already facing direct U.S. trade restrictions. On top of that, sluggish growth in China—the top global copper consumer—could keep additional pressure on prices worldwide.
While copper stirred geopolitical waves, China dropped a bombshell of its own: a record-breaking lithium find in Hunan Province. The provincial Department of Natural Resources announced that a 490-million-ton deposit had been identified, capping off years of high-tech exploration. What makes it unusual is the geology—the lithium is embedded in altered granite, unlike the pegmatites of Australia or the salt flats of South America. The rock is trickier to process but, when done right, can yield exceptionally pure lithium.
The exact classification of the granite—possibly metasomatic or clay-like formations—is still under review. But the deposit also contains rubidium, tungsten, and tin. Rubidium’s niche applications include specialty glass and high-tech devices, while tungsten is critical for cutting tools. Tin remains essential for everything from soldering electronics to coating steel in food cans.
The find is a strategic win for China, bolstering its already strong grip on the global lithium supply chain. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, China produced 41,000 tons of lithium last year, behind only Australia (88,000 tons) and Chile (49,000 tons). Its reserves, at 3 million tons, still trail Chile’s 9.3 million and Australia’s 7 million—but that gap may narrow quickly.
Despite leading global production, China still imports substantial amounts of lithium from Australia and South America. But that may be changing. Since 2021, new reserves totaling 30 million tons have been confirmed across Sichuan, Qinghai, Jiangxi, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia.
Forecasts now suggest China could ramp up to 900,000 tons of lithium per year by 2035. By comparison, Argentina is projected to reach 380,000 tons, Chile 435,000, and Australia 680,000. If those numbers hold, China could ease off foreign imports—just as global demand keeps climbing.
In India, Hindustan Copper is moving aggressively to increase output. The country’s lone vertically integrated copper producer has unveiled a $240 million expansion plan aimed at tripling its raw material capacity. The push focuses on operations in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan, boosting annual production and processing from 3.75 million tons to 12.2 million.
Hindustan Copper runs mines in five states—Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Total ore reserves clock in at 411.53 million tons, with broader resource estimates reaching 623.31 million. Despite the growth, the company is staying close to home, supplying local players like Hindalco and Adani’s new copper facility. Domestic sales bring faster cash flow than the longer cycles tied to global exports.
This expansion fits into India’s broader “Make in India” push to cut back on imported copper and ramp up local manufacturing. The government is simultaneously investing in energy grids, railways, and EV infrastructure. As a result, copper demand could double in just five years—from 1.3 million tons last year to 2.6 million.
Yet the picture isn’t all rosy. India still relies heavily on imported ores and concentrates. New deposits are rare, and favorable geology is even rarer. Indian buyers frequently find themselves in direct competition with Chinese firms for raw materials—driving up costs and import volumes. That tug-of-war complicates efforts to meet demand through domestic means alone.
Meanwhile, China’s rapid buildout of non-ferrous smelting capacity is putting Western producers in a tight spot. Just last month, Chinese firms agreed to process copper ore from South America’s Antofagasta without charging beyond the base price of the ore—an aggressive move that breaks with the long-standing global model where processing fees made up a big chunk of revenue.
China’s cathode copper output hit 1.135 million tons in June—an all-time high—driven by relentless growth in smelting capacity and a worldwide shortage of copper concentrate. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence expects that deficit to hit 1.1 million tons this year, rising to 2.6 million in the next.
The scale of Chinese production is staggering. Smelters there added 8% to capacity last year, with overall growth running at about 10% annually. That brought total capacity to nearly 12.8 million tons. And they’re doing it cheap—thanks to economies of scale and hefty government subsidies, Chinese producers can keep costs around $1,200 per ton, far below the global average of $1,800.
Western operators are feeling the heat. Glencore, for instance, is weighing whether to shut its Mount Isa smelter and Townsville cathode plant in Australia—both reportedly losing up to $30 million per month.
Still, some Western facilities retain strategic edge. Take Rio Tinto’s Kennecott Utah Copper plant, which produces tellurium—a key metal for microelectronics—thanks to the unique makeup of its ores and vertically integrated operations. That kind of diversification may help non-Chinese smelters stay afloat as the competitive gap widens.
In another sign of industry strain, Glencore has offloaded its Pasar plant in the Philippines. The buyer? The family of billionaire and former lawmaker Manny Villar, who holds large stakes in retail, real estate, and consumer goods.
Glencore pulled the plug on production at Pasar earlier this year, citing poor returns and a broader review of its copper and zinc assets. Even though the facility sits in a prime spot—taking in concentrate from Australia, Indonesia, and South America—the economics just didn’t add up.
Pasar typically turns out 1.2 million tons of LME-certified copper cathodes for Asian markets. The sale underscores a broader trend: smelters scaling back or consolidating amid historic lows in copper processing margins.
The nickel industry isn’t escaping the squeeze, either. Australian miner South32 has agreed to sell its Cerro Matoso plant in northwest Colombia for $100 million—well below its $230 million book value. The buyer, CoreX Holding, is expected to finalize the deal by the end of the year.
Operating since 1982 near the Panamanian border, Cerro Matoso produced 41,600 tons of ferronickel in 2024. But with prices down and competition fierce, the plant—like many others—is proving hard to keep profitable.
Weekly Metals News Digest – 30 June – 4 JulyAmerican company Nth Cycle has commenced processing end-of-life lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles to extract nickel and cobalt, supporting the US government’s push for raw material independence. The initiative aligns with federal legislation including the Inflation Reduction Act and the Defence Production Act, which encourage domestic processing of critical minerals and reduce reliance on imports.
The company operates a modular plant capable of recycling approximately 3,000 tonnes of scrap annually, producing a mixed nickel and cobalt hydroxide with concentrations of 55-60%. This output significantly exceeds the quality of similar products from Indonesian hydrometallurgical companies, which typically achieve maximum nickel and cobalt content of 40% from laterite ores.
Nth Cycle’s technology employs electroextraction of cobalt and nickel followed by chemical precipitation into hydroxide precipitate. However, the process faces challenges when handling complex waste streams containing non-metallic inclusions that can interfere with selective extraction. Traditional technologies demonstrate greater flexibility in processing diverse raw materials and extracting multiple non-ferrous metals simultaneously.
Despite current limitations, demand for metals from waste recycling remains tied to electric vehicle production and sales, which continue to lag behind forecasts. The company’s success could encourage similar players to enter the US market for recycling lithium-ion batteries and obsolete electronic equipment.
Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), the world’s largest lithium-ion battery manufacturer, has begun construction of a vertically integrated battery production complex in Indonesia alongside Indonesia Battery Corporation and PT Aneka Tambang. The $6 billion project will feature an initial capacity of 6.9 gigawatt hours, expandable to 15 gigawatt hours, with operations expected to commence by the end of next year.
The complex will encompass the entire supply chain from laterite ore mining and nickel extraction to cathode material production and finished battery assembly. This development follows Indonesia’s unsuccessful attempts to attract Tesla CEO Elon Musk to establish a battery manufacturing facility in the country.
Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s strategy aims to transform the nation into a global center for electric vehicle battery production, with plans to manufacture 600,000 electric vehicles annually by 2030. The country’s ambitions are supported by its position as one of the world’s largest nickel reserve holders. Indonesia accounted for 48% of global nickel smelting last year, with government forecasts projecting this share could reach 75% by 2030.
The domestic Indonesian electric vehicle market is expected to grow from 43,188 units in 2024 to 600,000 units by 2030, providing additional demand for the battery complex. However, CATL’s project may encounter obstacles including lengthy regulatory approval processes, skilled labor shortages, and infrastructure limitations.
Shengde Precious Metal Resources is set to launch Tanzania’s first copper production plant by the end of July, marking the country’s entry into the global copper supplier network. The facility has completed construction and is currently undergoing commissioning.
Tanzania historically produces approximately 10,000 tonnes of copper ore annually, which was previously exported as raw material. The government has now mandated that all companies developing copper deposits must process raw materials domestically, following examples set by Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo in restricting raw material exports.
The Shengde facility has already produced pilot copper cathodes meeting international quality standards and plans to process 1,000 tonnes of copper ore daily. The company faces competition from a joint venture between British company Marula Mining and Tanzanian company Takela Mining, which is developing the Kinusi deposit. Their project includes a first-phase enrichment plant capable of producing 24,000 tonnes of copper concentrate annually, followed by a second-phase extraction and electrolysis plant with 10,200 tonnes of annual copper production capacity.
Shengde Precious Metal Resources aims to establish a network of metallurgical plants to process raw materials from smaller mining companies, potentially transforming Tanzania’s position in the global copper market.
Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden) has completed the acquisition of full control over two joint ventures with American metallurgical corporation Alcoa. The deal encompasses Maaden Bauxite and Alumina Company, which operates a 4.25 million tonne per year bauxite mine and 1.8 million tonne alumina plant, and Maaden Aluminium Company, which runs a facility producing 740,000 tonnes of primary aluminium and 380,000 tonnes of flat aluminium products annually.
The original joint construction project between Maaden and Alcoa was valued at $10.8 billion. Following Alcoa’s announcement of its intention to divest in September 2024, Maaden initially explored a potential merger with Aluminium Bahrain. Such a combination would have created one of the largest aluminium producers outside China, with capacity exceeding 2 million tonnes per year.
However, the companies ultimately chose a different path. In January 2025, Maaden acquired a 20.6% stake in Aluminium Bahrain from Saudi Basic Industries for approximately $1 billion, enabling joint projects and coordinated global aluminium sales policies while maintaining separate operations.
Glencore may close two Australian facilities by September 2025 – the Mount Isa copper smelter and the Townsville copper cathode plant – due to mounting losses of up to $30 million per month. The closures reflect broader challenges facing Australia’s non-ferrous metallurgy sector amid intensifying global competition.
Chinese copper smelting capacity increased 8% last year to nearly 12.8 million tonnes, with local companies achieving production costs of $1,200 per tonne compared to the global average of $1,800. Chinese producers also benefit from substantial government subsidies, creating an uneven competitive landscape.
Australia’s industry faces additional pressures from high electricity tariffs, elevated labor costs compared to Chinese competitors, and limited government support. The country’s critical minerals strategy allocates $2 billion through 2030 for new ore processing enterprises but provides minimal assistance to existing operations.
The potential closure of Glencore’s smelters poses significant risks to Australia’s metals ecosystem. The Mount Isa shutdown would eliminate processing options for small mining companies that supply copper concentrates, while also ending sulphuric acid shipments needed for new mine development projects.
The crisis extends beyond Glencore, with European company Nystar seeking government support for its Australian lead and zinc plants, and nickel producers facing similar challenges. The situation appears unlikely to improve significantly by the end of 2025, suggesting a prolonged period of difficulty for Australia’s non-ferrous metallurgy
Weekly Metals News Digest – June 23-27Central Asia Metals has increased its takeover offer for Australian copper developer New World Resources from A$185 million ($119 million) to approximately A$230 million ($130 million). The revised bid of A$0.062 per share represents a 24% increase from the company’s initial May proposal and comes as part of a competitive bidding war with Canada’s Kinterra Capital.
The New World Resources board has unanimously recommended that shareholders accept the deal, citing the substantial premium offered and a temporary $10 million financing package as key benefits. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals from the United States and other jurisdictions.
Central Asia Metals operates a copper production facility in Kazakhstan that uses solvent extraction-electrowinning technology to recover copper from waste dumps at the former Kounrad mine. The plant has produced 165,000 tonnes of copper cathode since operations began in 2012, with an estimated 85,000 tonnes of additional production possible through 2034. The company also owns the Sasa lead-zinc mine in North Macedonia and holds a 28.7% stake in Aberdeen Minerals, which explores for non-ferrous metals in northeastern Scotland.
New World Resources owns three copper development projects in the United States, with the Antler project in Arizona being the most significant. The deposit contains 14.2 million tonnes of resources at 3.8% copper equivalent grade, along with zinc, lead, silver, and gold. Plans call for an underground mine producing approximately 30,000 tonnes of copper concentrate annually over a 12-year mine life. The acquisition would position Central Asia Metals as a major copper producer in Central Asia, particularly as global copper markets face projected long-term supply shortages.
Gazprom Neft has announced plans to begin industrial lithium production by 2028, extracting the metal from formation waters at hydrocarbon deposits in the Orenburg region. The initiative supports Russia’s goal of producing at least 60,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate annually by 2030 to supply domestic lithium-ion battery manufacturing facilities.
The company’s interest in lithium extraction dates back to 2021, when it signed a memorandum with Irkutsk Oil Company to develop the Kovykta gas condensate field’s lithium-rich brines. A year later, Gazprom Neft agreed to cooperate with Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade on research and development for domestic lithium extraction technologies. The original timeline called for construction to begin in 2023 and commercial production to start in 2025, with annual lithium carbonate output exceeding 700 tonnes.
Gazprom Neft’s move reflects a broader trend of oil and gas companies entering the lithium sector. Chevron recently acquired 50,600 hectares in Texas and Arkansas for lithium extraction from the Smackover Formation, joining ExxonMobil, Occidental Petroleum, and Equinor in pursuing similar projects. While these brine-based operations are growing in number, they remain smaller in scale compared to traditional hard-rock lithium mining operations.
The Canadian government plans to adjust aluminum import duties in July as part of its response to US President Donald Trump’s trade policies. This action is part of Canada’s broader strategy to protect its domestic market, which includes restricting access to federal government contracts and addressing global metal overcapacity based on country-of-origin principles.
The two countries are currently negotiating over the 50% tariffs on aluminum imports that Trump imposed on Canadian products. These duties, which doubled from the initial 25% rate implemented in March, apply to both raw aluminum and various semi-finished products including flat-rolled materials, extruded profiles, and castings. The current tariffs are considered more stringent than similar measures introduced in 2018, as they eliminate previous exceptions and alternative arrangements.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Trump have discussed concluding a new economic agreement to regulate trade relations between the countries. The stakes are significant: Canada produced 3.3 million tonnes of primary aluminum last year compared to just 670,000 tonnes in the United States, where high electricity costs have made domestic production less competitive. Canada supplies nearly 60% of US aluminum imports, far exceeding other suppliers like the UAE (8%), Bahrain (4%), and China (3%). A prolonged trade dispute could create major problems for both Canadian producers and American consumers who rely on Canadian aluminum.
Hindalco Industries has acquired AluChem Companies, a US specialty alumina producer, for $125 million. This marks the Indian company’s third major US acquisition following its purchases of Novelis in 2007 and Aleris in 2020, demonstrating a clear strategy to expand in the American market.
The acquisition of AluChem will add 60,000 tonnes of annual specialty alumina capacity to Hindalco’s existing 500,000 tonnes, supporting the company’s goal of reaching 1 million tonnes of total capacity. Specialty alumina is used in lithium-ion battery manufacturing for electric vehicles and in semiconductor production, both rapidly growing markets.
Hindalco’s expansion comes as other international players also target the US aluminum sector. Emirates Global Aluminium announced plans in May to invest $4 billion in a 600,000-tonne-per-year aluminum plant in Oklahoma, with construction expected to begin in late 2026. The UAE company previously acquired aluminum scrap recycler Spectro Alloys and is negotiating with Oklahoma authorities for electricity supply contracts and tax incentives. Unlike Emirates Global Aluminium’s greenfield approach, Hindalco is focusing on acquiring existing operations to quickly expand its specialty alumina footprint.
Eurasian Resources Group plans to invest $20 million to establish gallium production in Kazakhstan, targeting an annual output of 15 tonnes starting in 2026. The company will extract gallium from red mud waste generated at its Pavlodar aluminum plant, positioning Kazakhstan as potentially the world’s second-largest gallium producer after China.
Gallium is primarily obtained as a byproduct of processing bauxite and nepheline into alumina, though it can also be recovered from coal and oil and gas field waters. Global annual production is limited to approximately 760 tonnes, with China accounting for 750 tonnes and the remainder coming from Japan, South Korea, and Russia. The metal is critical for semiconductor manufacturing, LED production, and emerging applications in electric vehicle charging systems.
The European Commission has recognized the strategic importance of gallium by designating Greek company Metlen Energy & Metals’ 50-tonne-per-year production facility as a strategic project. Meanwhile, Rio Tinto and Indium Corporation have completed the first phase of their gallium extraction research, successfully producing a pilot batch from bauxite processed at Rio Tinto’s Quebec alumina refinery. If successful, their demonstration plant could produce up to 3.5 tonnes annually, with potential for full-scale production at the Vaudreuil facility.
The growing interest in gallium reflects its expanding applications beyond traditional uses in thermometers and nuclear reactor coolants. Chinese companies have developed high-power EV charging stations using liquid gallium-filled tubes instead of copper cables for improved heat dissipation, while Japanese firms Mazda and Rohm Semiconductor are developing lighter, more compact gallium components for electric vehicles.
Weekly Metals News Digest – June 16 – 13In May, Chinese metallurgical companies imported 2.4 million tonnes of copper concentrates, marking a 5.8% increase over the same period last year. This growth brought total copper concentrate imports to 12.4 million tonnes for the first five months of 2025, a 7.4% rise compared to the previous year. The main suppliers remain Latin America and Africa. However, May’s figure also represented a sharp drop from April’s record imports, reflecting typical seasonal fluctuations as Chinese smelters undergo scheduled maintenance.
Meanwhile, imports of unprocessed copper declined. In May, China brought in 427,000 tonnes of unwrought copper, a 16.9% decrease year-on-year. For the January–May period, these imports fell by 6.8% to nearly 2.2 million tonnes. This trend is influenced by several factors. First, domestic demand for copper remains robust, driven by the automotive sector, a seasonal upturn in construction, and ongoing repairs to power grids and energy facilities. There is also strong demand for sulphuric acid, a by-product of copper smelting used in fertiliser production, and for gold, which is recovered during copper processing.
Second, reduced shipments of copper concentrates from mining companies have forced Chinese smelters to blend higher-quality raw materials with lower-quality ones and to increase the use of scrap and waste. Third, global copper trade flows are shifting, with more copper moving to the United States ahead of new US import tariffs. This has led to low copper stocks at the Shanghai Futures Exchange, while inventories at the US COMEX have doubled since March. Premiums for copper deliveries to Japan are also at record highs.
Looking ahead, China is expected to further increase copper imports in the coming months, as high capacity utilisation in the non-ferrous metallurgy sector is supported by strong orders from manufacturing and construction for semi-finished copper products.
The European Commission has granted strategic status to the Jadar lithium project in Serbia, operated by Rio Tinto, under the Critical Raw Materials Act. This designation, part of a broader EU effort to secure critical mineral supplies, allows the project to benefit from EU legislative support. Jadar is notable for its unique jadarite deposit, a mineral containing boron, silicon, lithium, and sodium, discovered by Rio Tinto in 2004.
Initially, Rio Tinto planned to start production in 2026, ramping up to 58,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent per year by 2029, which would have made it the largest lithium supplier in Europe. However, the project faced strong local opposition due to environmental concerns, particularly regarding potential pollution of the Jadar River valley, a major agricultural region. After mass protests, the Serbian government revoked the project’s permit in 2022.
In 2024, Rio Tinto provided new environmental safety guarantees, and Serbian authorities agreed to allow the project to proceed, aiming for a 2028 start. This decision reignited protests across Serbia. Rio Tinto plans to invest $2.4 billion in the mining and metallurgical complex, which will also produce boric acid and sodium sulphate.
Lithium is critical for European industry, which is almost entirely dependent on imports from China. The EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act aims to ensure that by 2030, at least 10% of lithium is sourced from within the bloc. However, new mining projects continue to face scrutiny over their environmental and social impacts.
Hindustan Zinc, India’s largest zinc producer, has approved a $1.4 billion investment to build a new zinc production facility in Debari, Rajasthan. The new plant will raise the company’s zinc output from 1.129 million tonnes to 1.379 million tonnes, with a long-term goal of reaching 2 million tonnes per year. Silver production, a by-product of zinc ore processing, will also rise from 0.8 to 1.5 thousand tonnes per year. The project, funded through a mix of internal resources and loans, is expected to be completed within three years.
Hindustan Zinc is the world’s second-largest zinc producer and dominates the Indian market with a 77% share. The company’s expansion aligns with India’s push to boost domestic industry and reduce reliance on imports, especially as the government targets 300 million tonnes of steel production by 2030. Zinc demand is expected to double over the next five to ten years, driven by infrastructure projects requiring galvanised steel.
At the close of the 2025 financial year, Hindustan Zinc reported an 18% increase in revenue to $4.1 billion and a 33% rise in net profit to $1.2 billion. The company’s expansion will support India’s infrastructure boom and growing demand for zinc in the automotive and construction sectors.
Chevron has acquired 50,600 hectares of land in Texas and Arkansas from TerraVolta Resources and East Texas Natural Resources, targeting lithium extraction from underground brines in the Smackover Formation. This geological formation, spanning several southern US states, is known for its lithium-rich brines. According to the US Geological Survey, the Smackover Formation could contain between 5 and 19 million tonnes of lithium, a quantity that far exceeds projected global demand for 2030.
Chevron’s entry into lithium extraction follows similar moves by ExxonMobil, Occidental Petroleum, and Equinor, all of whom are developing projects in the Smackover region. Chevron plans to use direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, which employs selective sorbents, membranes, or ion exchange systems to extract lithium from brines. This method is faster and less environmentally damaging than traditional evaporation ponds.
The company’s acquisition is part of a broader US policy push to secure domestic supplies of critical minerals. While DLE technology has not yet been commercialised at scale, Chevron’s move positions it to benefit as demand for lithium continues to grow, despite current price weakness.
SK Nexilis, a South Korean manufacturer of copper foil for lithium-ion batteries, has received a $110 million investment from Toyota Tsusho for its Malaysian plant. The facility is a key part of SK Nexilis’ strategy to expand in Southeast Asia, where electric vehicle and battery production is increasing rapidly.
SK Nexilis’ Malaysian plant is one of the world’s largest copper foil production sites, with an annual capacity of 57,000 tonnes. The company is also expanding in Europe, with a new plant in Poland and plans to increase total production capacity to 250,000 tonnes by 2025. The Polish government recently provided a $133 million subsidy to support the development of the European facility.
Toyota Tsusho’s investment will help SK Nexilis secure raw materials and improve supply chain resilience. Copper foil is a critical component in lithium-ion battery anodes, with each electric vehicle requiring 35–40 kilograms of copper foil. Global production capacity for battery-grade copper foil is over 1.4 million tonnes and is expected to reach 2 million tonnes in the long term.
SK Nexilis is the world’s largest producer of copper foil, supplying major battery manufacturers such as LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI, SK On, Panasonic, and CATL. The company plans to continue expanding its global footprint to meet growing demand from the electric vehicle sector.
Weekly Metals News Digest – June 9 – 13The French metallurgical group Constellium has entered into an agreement with the American company Nikon Advanced Manufacturing and the public-private partnership America Makes to implement a project focused on the use of a specialized aluminium alloy in additive manufacturing. The initiative is geared towards applications within the US defense and aerospace industries. With a budget of $2.1 million, the project is funded by the US Department of Defense and will be managed by America Makes. Other key collaborators providing guidance include top defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
As part of this collaboration, Constellium will supply its Aheadd CP1 aluminium alloy, a material containing zirconium and iron additives that was specifically developed by the company’s engineers for laser powder bed fusion. This form of 3D printing is designed to create highly complex and detailed metal parts. The Aheadd CP1 alloy has already demonstrated its potential in the manufacturing of critical, high-stress components, such as heat exchangers, and has been approved for producing parts for Formula 1 racing cars.
The project’s primary objective is to evaluate the properties of the Aheadd CP1 alloy and subsequently qualify it as a material suitable for the stringent requirements of the defense and aerospace sectors. This effort is a component of a much larger program aimed at maximizing the use of additive technologies in companies that support US national defense. All data obtained from the testing will be shared with US Department of Defense partners through the Workbench for Additive Materials information database. The Pentagon’s focus on additive technologies is driven by their ability to accelerate the production and repair of weapons and equipment. Notably, 3D printing can be used to create ‘disposable’ spare parts for aircraft repair, allowing for faster component replacement compared to traditional manufacturing methods.
The Japanese corporations Toshiba and Sojitz, in partnership with the Brazilian company CBMM, have developed a new type of lithium-ion battery that utilizes an anode made of niobium and titanium instead of traditional graphite. While graphite is a common material for anodes in lithium-ion batteries, it has a significant limitation: during rapid charging, a layer of metallic lithium can form on the surface of the graphite anode. This deposition increases the risk of short circuits, which in turn reduces the lifespan and safety of the battery.
The use of titanium and niobium oxides as the anode material effectively prevents the deposition of metallic lithium. This innovation ensures the durability and safety of the batteries, even when they are subjected to frequent high-power charging. According to Toshiba, the predicted service life of such a battery is at least 15,000 charge cycles, a substantial improvement over existing battery models and a key factor in potentially reducing the overall cost of electric vehicles and electronic equipment.
Toshiba has already begun to supply samples of these new lithium-ion batteries to its customers. The batteries have been tested in an electric bus at the industrial site of CBMM in Brazil. CBMM’s involvement in the project is central, as the company produces over 100,000 tonnes of niobium per year, making Brazil the world’s largest producer. It is followed by Canada with 7,100 tonnes, Congo with 700 tonnes, Russia with 350 tonnes, and Rwanda with 200 tonnes annually.
Niobium is currently used for alloying steels for large-diameter pipes, in the manufacture of high-capacity electrolytic capacitors, for cryotrons in computers, and in uranium and plutonium fuel elements for nuclear reactors. The project by Toshiba, Sojitz, and CBMM could establish an entirely new market for the metal.
Hunan Zhongke Electric, a Chinese manufacturer of materials for lithium-ion batteries, intends to invest $1.1 billion to construct and launch a plant for producing anode materials in the Sohar Free Economic Zone in Oman. The project is planned to be implemented in two phases, with each phase launching production of anode materials with a capacity of 100,000 tonnes per year, for a total of 200,000 tonnes. The first phase is scheduled for completion three years after the start of construction.
The global market for lithium-ion battery materials is currently experiencing rapid growth, driven by the expansion of electric vehicles and portable electronics, as well as the increasing use of renewable energy sources and storage devices. The market’s value is expected to reach $12.3 billion by the end of this year, with projections for it to expand to $26.3 billion by 2030. Anode materials are a critical component of these batteries, directly influencing parameters such as charging speed, service life, energy density, and safety.
Last year, Hunan Zhongke Electric supplied 225,700 tonnes of anode materials to its customers, generating nearly $700 million in revenue. Its client list includes major lithium-ion battery manufacturers such as CATL, BYD, LG Energy Solution, SK On, and Samsung SDI. The Sohar Free Economic Zone, where the new anode plant will be built, has already attracted over $30 billion in foreign capital investment. Under recently signed agreements, a solar power plant and a wind turbine manufacturing plant are also planned for the zone. Together with the Hunan Zhongke Electric plant, these projects will help create a cluster for the production of clean energy equipment and stimulate demand for various materials, while also helping to diversify Oman’s economy, which has long been based on the extraction and export of hydrocarbons.
China’s East Hope Group plans to implement a large-scale, vertically integrated aluminum complex in Kazakhstan. According to the company’s plans, the complex will include a bauxite mining and processing plant with a capacity of 6 million tonnes per year, a primary aluminum smelter with a capacity of up to 3 million tonnes per year, and a wind farm to supply them with energy. East Hope Group intends to carry out the project in three stages, utilizing modern and environmentally friendly technologies. The total investment is estimated at $12 billion, and the project is expected to create 10,000 permanent jobs.
East Hope Group has extensive interests in the global non-ferrous metallurgy industry, as well as in agriculture, construction, chemicals, and power engineering. It is owned by Liu Yunxin, one of China’s wealthiest individuals. However, the company’s primary focus is non-ferrous metallurgy. In 2019, it signed a memorandum of understanding with the Khalifa Industrial Zone administration in the United Arab Emirates, which provided for investments of up to $10 billion. The first phase of that project included an alumina plant, followed by a waste treatment plant and an R&D center, and finally plants for non-ferrous metals production. However, there has been no information about the successful implementation of this project to date, and it is possible that it was halted.
In Kazakhstan, East Hope Group will face competition from Eurasian Resources Group, which owns the Kazakhstan Electrolysis Plant with an annual capacity of 250,000 tonnes of aluminum. This plant receives 1.5 million tonnes of alumina from Aluminium of Kazakhstan (also part of Eurasian Resources Group) and supplies another 1 million tonnes to Russia. Eurasian Resources Group had previously considered increasing the capacity of its electrolysis plant by another 250,000 tonnes per year, but this project has not yet been implemented.
The Indonesian government is moving to radically transform the country’s national copper industry by preparing a package of financial measures, including tax incentives for companies that establish production of semi-finished copper products. The goal is to produce items like copper foil and rolled products for use both domestically and for export to the global market. Currently, the main product of Indonesia’s copper industry is pure metal, which is mostly exported. The government now seeks to change this situation to align with global industrial trends.
Copper foil is a necessary component for the manufacture of conductive tracks for printed circuit boards, a key element of all electronic devices, as well as for the anodes of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. Flat-rolled products and pipes are needed for heating, water supply, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, heat exchangers, and electrical equipment. By stimulating the mass production of these goods, Indonesian authorities aim to facilitate their supply to car factories and electronics manufacturers located within the country, while also selling them to countries with significant consumption volumes.
The Indonesian government has been restructuring its non-ferrous metallurgy industry for some time, and the copper sector is no exception. In 2020, it banned the export of nickel ore and concentrates, which led to an increase in the production and shipment of pure nickel, nickel pig iron, and ferronickel. A similar ban on copper raw materials was planned for 2023 but was postponed to 2024 to accommodate the launch of two large new metallurgical plants built by the American company Freeport-McMoRan and the Indonesian company Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara. In particular, Freeport-McMoRan has commissioned a plant with a capacity of 650,000 tonnes of copper cathodes per year, at a cost of $3.7 billion.
The Indonesian government expects that the transformation of the country’s copper industry will increase state budget revenues through the export of high-value-added products and strengthen its position in the global copper market, especially amid the expected growth in demand driven by the development of green energy.
Platinum and palladiumPlatinum and palladium are platinum group metals (PGM), a classification which also includes iridium, osmium, rhodium and ruthenium. Both metals are highly valued for their rarity, durability and wide-ranging applications, which makes them particularly important in the automotive industry, jewellery making and clean energy. Today, the importance of these metals to global markets is growing, especially amidst the transition to a green economy. Despite belonging to the same group of metals, platinum and palladium differ markedly in their properties and applications.
Palladium is a silvery-white metal, known for its cubic crystal lattice structure. First discovered in 1802 by William Hyde Wollaston, today it is mined primarily in Russia (92 tonnes per year) and South Africa (71 tonnes per year) – the two undisputed leaders in palladium production. Palladium is one of the world’s rarest metals, and is approximately 15 to 30 times scarcer than gold, which accounts for its high price. Palladium is lightweight, durable and highly corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
Platinum, discovered in the 18th century, is another platinum group metal and has some similarities to palladium. Platinum is heavier, denser and has a higher melting point, making it suitable for high-temperature applications. The main production centres for platinum are in South Africa and Russia. South Africa is the leading producer, holding about 95% of the world’s platinum reserves.
Though platinum and palladium may appear similar, there are some significant differences in their physical properties:
Both metals have experienced significant price volatility in recent years. Palladium prices rose sharply between 2020 and 2022, reaching $3,000 per troy ounce as a result of supply shortages driven by tightening environmental standards in the automotive industry. Despite a subsequent fall in prices (palladium is trading at $1,200 per troy ounce at the time of writing, while platinum is trading at $1,027), palladium remains more expensive than platinum due to its higher scarcity and the demand for catalytic converters.
Platinum, on the other hand, has had a more stable price trajectory, with moderate growth thanks to increasing demand for industrial applications and the development of the hydrogen economy. Analysts forecast a slow but steady increase in platinum prices, while palladium prices are likely to decline due to the growing popularity of electric vehicles, which do not require catalytic converters.
Russia and South Africa dominate production for both metals. South Africa holds about 95% of the world’s platinum reserves, while Russia leads palladium production, producing about 92 tonnes per year. This level of concentration poses a potential supply disruption risk.
Platinum and palladium are critical metals, each with unique properties that make them suitable for a wide variety of applications. Thanks to its weight, high melting point and strength, platinum is ideal for high-temperature industrial applications and jewellery. Palladium, which is light, resistant to corrosion and highly durable, is an essential metal for the automotive industry, hydrogen storage and advanced technologies in areas such as solar panels. Both metals continue to find new applications, notably in green energy.
Palladium: A unique metal with wide-ranging applicationsPalladium is one of the rarest and most valuable metals on the planet – it’s 30 times more scarce than gold. The history of this metal begins in 1802, when English chemist William Hyde Wollaston discovered a new substance while dissolving platinum in a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acids. Initially, Wollaston was reluctant to announce his discovery to the public, preferring to sell the metal to private buyers as ‘new silver’. It was only after other scientists began to claim that palladium was simply an alloy of existing metals that Wollaston was forced to present his findings to the Royal Society of London.
The metal was named after the asteroid Pallas, which was discovered around the same time. Initially, palladium was used to treat tuberculosis, but this practice had to be abandoned because of side effects. Palladium began to be used in jewellery in 1939, most often as a component of white gold. Thanks to its anticorrosive properties and attractive silvery-white colour, it quickly gained popularity among high-end jewellers.
It wasn’t until the late 1980s, however, that the application of palladium was widely adopted. This was the result of the tightening of environmental standards in the automobile industry, when the introduction of new emissions standards in the US, Europe and Japan required the mass rollout of catalytic converters. Here, palladium proved to be a vital component.
Palladium has a unique set of properties that make it indispensable in numerous modern technologies. It is a ductile, silvery-white metal that is 12.6% harder than platinum, ensuring high wear resistance. Palladium is also ductile enough that it can be produced in sheets measuring 4 microns thick, which makes it suitable for use in hydrogen fuel cells, hydrogen purification and other high-tech applications.
One of palladium’s most remarkable properties is its ability to absorb as much as 900 times its own volume in hydrogen. This makes it vital in hydrogen purification processes and hydrogen energy. Additionally, palladium has high resistance to chemical corrosion and excellent electrical conductivity.
Historically, the automotive industry has been the largest consumer of palladium. Catalytic converters, which convert toxic exhaust gases into less harmful substances, use 2–7 grams of the metal. It is worth noting, however, that the development of electric vehicles could ultimately change palladium’s role in the automotive industry significantly. Since electric vehicles do not need catalytic converters, demand for palladium from automakers may decrease in the long term. This creates certain challenges for palladium producers, while incentivising the search for new applications for the metal.
Palladium opens the door to more efficient and environmentally friendly water purification technologies. Unlike the traditional method of disinfecting water with chlorine, which requires the storage of large volumes of hazardous chemicals, palladium-based technologies allow disinfectants to be produced directly at the point of use.
The process is based on the electrolysis of common table salt, with a palladium catalyst ensuring high reaction efficiency. The catalytic system requires just 0.6 milligrams of palladium per unit, which makes the technology economically viable even taking into account the high cost of the metal. These units are not only safer to operate, but also allow for higher levels of water purification with lower cost inputs.
Against the backdrop of the global transition to clean energy, palladium is playing a key role in the development of hydrogen energy. It is deployed across the entire cycle of hydrogen production and use, from water electrolysis to the purification of the resulting gas and its storage.
Palladium is used as an electrode component and a catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction in the production of ‘green’ hydrogen. Palladium membranes play a special role, possessing a unique ability to let only hydrogen molecules pass through them, thus ensuring a very high level of purification. These membranes are capable of operating at high temperatures and pressures, maintaining stability and efficiency for long periods.
Palladium membranes are already being implemented in a number of large-scale projects. For example, the British company Johnson Matthey has developed and implemented a technology for catalytic membranes that are used to produce clean hydrogen through water electrolysis. These catalyst-coated membranes are used in electrolysers and are key components in the production of ‘green’ hydrogen that avoids harmful emissions. This technology can contribute to the decarbonisation of various industries, including transport and heavy industry.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is dedicating significant resources to the development of hydrogen energy technologies, including solid-state electrolysis cells and anode exchange membranes, which are used to generate hydrogen for fuel cells. These technologies allow for the efficient production of hydrogen, which can be used as a clean energy source. Russia’s Nornickel, meanwhile, is investing heavily in the development of palladium membranes, with a focus on increasing their service life and efficiency.
The latest research has been positive when it comes to potential applications for palladium in solar power. A newly synthesised compound of palladium and selenium has demonstrated unique photoelectric properties. The compound has a higher efficiency when converting light energy into electrical energy compared with traditional materials used in solar panels such as copper, indium and selenium.
Although this technology is still in its fundamental research stage, scientists are already studying a number of its aspects, including the chemical stability of the new synthesised compound and how its properties change depending on particle size and layer thickness. It is expected that a prototype of a new active element for solar panels using palladium will be developed in the near future.
Palladium has proven itself as an effective catalyst in the chemical industry, and is used in many processes. It plays a particularly important role in the production of glycolic acid, a substance widely used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and textile industries. The traditional method of producing glycolic acid through the oxidation of formaldehyde with nitric acid is environmentally harmful. With palladium catalysts, the more environmentally friendly process of liquid-phase oxidation of ethylene glycol can be used.
Current research is focused on creating new catalytic systems based on palladium and gold nanoparticles on a carbon carrier. Laboratory tests show that these catalysts outperform existing commercial solutions in terms of both activity and selectivity, providing higher yields of the target product.
Global palladium production is concentrated in a handful of countries. Russia leads the way, producing about 92 tonnes of the metal per year, while South Africa is ranked second with 71 tonnes. Canada (16 tonnes), Zimbabwe (15 tonnes) and the United States (9 tonnes) also make significant contributions to global production.
Palladium prices have historically been highly volatile. The metal fluctuated in the $100–150 per ounce range between 1986 and 1996, and the first significant price jump occurred in 2001. In subsequent years, the price showed significant fluctuations and, as of 2016, it has begun to grow steadily, exceeding $1,500 per ounce in February 2019. In February 2022, the price reached an all-time high of around $3,000 per ounce.
Despite the potential reduction in demand from the automotive industry resulting from the development of electric transport, prospects for applications of palladium remain very optimistic. Research is actively underway to create new materials and technologies using palladium in a number of fields:
In hydrogen energy, scientists are working to improve palladium membranes by increasing their service life and efficiency. Particular attention is being paid to the development of new alloys of palladium with other platinum group metals (PGMs) to achieve a synergistic effect from their catalytic properties.
In water purification, research is aimed at optimising the composition of catalytic coatings to increase activity and reduce the amount of palladium required. New methods for applying palladium to electrodes are being developed to ensure better adhesion and a longer service life for the coatings.
In solar energy, new palladium compounds that can convert light energy into electrical energy more efficiently are being studied. Researchers are working to optimise the structure and composition of these compounds in order to achieve the maximum possible energy conversion efficiency.
Despite its high cost, palladium remains one of the most important metals for the development of new technologies. Its unique properties make it indispensable in a number of critical applications, from water purification to clean energy generation. Although the advent of EVs may lead to a decrease in demand from the automotive industry, the emergence of new applications and improvements in existing technologies are creating a sustainable future for this rare metal.
Current research and development efforts are aimed at optimising the use of palladium, which will help to reduce the amounts of the metal required in various applications while maintaining or even improving efficiency. This makes palladium-based technologies more accessible and suitable for widespread implementation, which is of vital importance in the context of the global transition to cleaner and more sustainable technologies.
Palladium use in green hydrogen generationHydrogen is emerging as a promising alternative fuel for the transportation and energy sectors due to its clean-burning property and high energy density. “Green” hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, is particularly attractive as it has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
One of the key technologies for the production of green hydrogen is electrolysis, a process that uses electricity to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Palladium plays a crucial role in this process, as it is used in the construction of electrolysis cells and as a catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
“Palladium is a metal having a high catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction at the cathode, providing a high yield of hydrogen,” researcher Irina Goryunova says.
With palladium, the catalyst increases its activity while the resource remains the same, she explained, adding that the technology thus becomes more efficient and accessible.
“We received a prototypes of the catalyst, from particles of the palladium-iridium alloy. These passed laboratory tests and was sent for testing in semi-industrial conditions,” she added.
In the electrolysis process, a proton exchange membrane (PEM) or an alkaline electrolyzer is used to conduct the electrolysis of water. The construction of these electrolysis cells requires materials that are resistant to corrosion and provide good electrical conductivity.
Palladium, with its excellent corrosion resistance and high electrical conductivity, is a perfect material for the construction of these cells. Its ability to withstand harsh operating conditions and long-term stability under high electrical currents makes it an essential component in the manufacture of efficient and durable electrolysis cells.
In addition to its role in the construction of electrolysis cells, palladium also plays a critical role as a catalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction. In the electrolysis process, the HER occurs at the cathode, where protons are reduced to form hydrogen gas. Palladium-based catalysts have been extensively studied for their high catalytic activity and selectivity towards the HER. These catalysts exhibit excellent performance in terms of high hydrogen evolution rates and low overpotentials, which are essential for the efficient and cost-effective production of green hydrogen.
The use of palladium in green hydrogen generation is not without its challenges. Palladium is a precious metal and has limited availability, which can pose cost and supply chain challenges for large-scale implementation of electrolysis technology. To overcome this limitation, there is ongoing research to develop alternative catalyst materials that could replace or reduce the amount of palladium required for the HER. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve the recycling and reuse of palladium to reduce its environmental impact and ensure a sustainable supply chain for green hydrogen production.
Despite these challenges, the use of palladium in green hydrogen generation offers significant benefits. The high catalytic activity and stability of palladium-based catalysts contribute to the efficiency and reliability of electrolysis technology, making it a key enabler for the widespread adoption of green hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy carrier. As research and development efforts continue to advance the understanding and application of palladium in green hydrogen generation, the potential for cost reductions and increased availability of palladium-based technologies could further enhance the competitiveness of green hydrogen in the global energy landscape.
The sustainable benefits of palladium in hydrogen generation are obvious. Despite challenges related to its availability and cost, the unique properties of the white metal make it an essential component in the development of efficient and sustainable electrolysis technology for green hydrogen production. As advancements in materials science and engineering continue to drive innovation in this field, the role of palladium in hydrogen production holds promise for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
Lithium foil market analysis: battery-grade copper & lithium foils explainedLithium foil and copper foil for battery use are seeing substantial growth, driven by the rising needs from electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Key parameters like the foil’s thickness, conductivity, and the manufacturing technology used form the building blocks of this evolving supply chain.
The foil market is composed of several specialized materials
Three basic production methods separate quality:
Applications in lithium-ion batteries
Key factors are integrity (no cracks), coating compatibility, and electrical performance.
Key technical parameters include:
Asia-Pacific leads in lithium foil production, while North America accelerates copper foil capacity. Growth is driven by EVs, ESS, and electronics.
| Feature | Lithium Foil | Copper Foil | Aluminum Foil |
| Function | Active anode | Anode current collector | Cathode current collector |
| Typical Thickness | Microns | 4–12 µm | 6–20 µm |
| Conductivity | High | Very high (>99.9%) | Good, lower than copper |
| Mechanical Strength | Brittle | Tensile ~40–50 kgf/mm² | Moderate |
| Cost | High | Moderate | Low |
| Applications | Solid-state, Li-metal | Li-ion anode | Li-ion cathode |
To choose the right foil:
Major developments include
Lithium foil is used as the anode in lithium-metal and solid-state batteries. It provides higher energy densities compared to graphite but requires careful engineering and controlled conditions to be stable and safe.
Because lithium foil is highly reactive, it requires disposal through certified hazardous waste management processes or specialized battery recycling facilities. It should never be exposed to water or thrown away as regular trash, as it has significant potential for flammability.
Elon Musk has long emphasized lithium’s strategic importance in EV manufacturing. He supports increasing lithium mining and processing, whereas Tesla’s innovations include new cell designs that still rely on foils for current collection.
Yes. Metallic lithium is highly flammable, especially when exposed to water or humid air. In batteries, it is stabilized by coatings and sealed environments, but raw lithium foil is a fire hazard if mishandled.
Aluminium uses: why it’s essential in foil, cookware, wiring & aerospaceAluminium is one of the most versatile substances used in modern industry, valued for its light weight, malleability, resistance to corrosion, and conductivity of heat. Having the density value of only 2.7 g/cm³, aluminium is about one-third lighter than steel, hence making it especially suitable in applications where mass reduction is critical.
Its thin oxide film gives the metal excellent resistance to corrosion, which is enhanced further by treatments like anodising. Aluminium also has high reflectivity with the ability to reflect light in the visible spectrum to as high as 92%, thus explaining its large use in insulation products as well as the foils used in packing.
Chemically, pure aluminum is a soft and malleable metal, but the addition of alloying elements like copper, zinc, magnesium, or silicon creates materials with high strength-to-weight ratios that are important for aerospace and structural applications.
In everyday life, aluminium foil is a staple for food storage due to its barrier properties against light, oxygen, and moisture. Its reflective and heat-resistant nature makes it ideal for cooking and wrapping, maintaining food freshness while withstanding high temperatures.
Aluminium is used for making cooking utensils like pans and baking trays thanks to its thermal conductivity and non-toxic nature. It heats evenly and cools quickly, improving cooking efficiency. It’s also a safe material, provided it’s not scratched or degraded, which could expose users to trace metal leaching.
Aluminium is also prominent in packaging, from drink cans to laminated food wrappers, due to its lightweight, recyclability, and ability to preserve content. Moreover, used aluminium canopies, boats, ladders, and doors often retain value due to aluminium’s durability and recyclability.
Aluminium in construction is utilized in roofing sheets, window frames, doors, and composite panels. The corrosion-resistant and anodised coatings of the metal render it apt for external environments without any further protection.
Aluminium composite panels are widely used for façade cladding, owing to their lightness and modern look. Aluminium’s strength-to-weight ratio adds to the functionality of ladders and scaffolding made of this metal, thus making transportation easier and enhancing safety during handling operations.
Beyond buildings, aluminium is integrated into industrial machinery and components. Its adaptability through casting and extrusion processes enables the production of custom shapes for infrastructure and manufacturing.
Despite the high conductivity of copper, aluminium is often used for making electrical wires and transmission lines because of its more favorable cost-to-weight ratio. Although aluminium has about 60% of the conductivity of copper, it has only 30% of the weight, thus allowing for longer spans and lighter structural components.
This advantage explains the reason why aluminium and copper are used for electrical transmission—aluminium, in particular, for overhead power lines, and copper for cabling in highly populated urban regions. Aluminium conductors also exhibit resistance to environmental degradation, thus requiring less maintenance in the long run.
Its high heat conductivity places it as the foremost choice in applications like radiators, air conditioning devices, and heat exchangers. In addition, its non-magnetic nature makes aluminium suitable to be used in sensitive electronic environments.
Aluminium alloys have significant applications in aircraft, cars, boats, and trailers. Specific grades, like the 7075 and the 2024 aluminium alloys, have high tensile strength with the maintenance of lightweight profile, which is important to achieve improved fuel efficiency and payload in the aviation industry.
In marine applications, used aluminium boats for sale maintain their value due to the corrosion-resistant nature of aluminium in saltwater conditions. The same applies to aluminium trailers and ute trays, which offer reduced towing weights and a longer life.
Automobile producers have increasingly used aluminium components to meet fuel efficiency and emission-mitigating requirements. In engine blocks, chassis parts, as well as in body panels, aluminium plays an important role in balancing efficiency with performance.
For enhanced performance, aluminium undergoes surface treatments, like anodizing, that thicken the protective oxide layer, giving a boost to wear resistance as well as coloring potential. Anodized aluminium finds widespread use in architectural and consumer electronic applications because of its aesthetic appeal and durability.
Powder coats, lacquers, and ceramic coats work to protect the aluminium against mechanical wear and climactic influence. Such surface finishes increase durability while at the same time offering considerable design flexibility, which is especially important in today’s architectural and industrial designs.
Aluminium compounds have significant industrial value. Aluminium chloride is used in petrochemical production, aluminium sulphate in water purification, and aluminium hydroxide in pharmaceuticals as an antacid and vaccine adjuvant.
Aluminium oxide, or alumina, is a critical ingredient in both abrasive materials and refractory ceramic products. In addition to this, it is used prominently in the production of synthetic sapphires and as a precursor to the extraction of metallic aluminium via the Bayer process.
In construction, these compounds are used for waterproofing, fire retardants, and paint additives. In personal care, aluminium salts serve as active ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants.
Aluminium is considered to be one of the world’s most recyclable products. Recycling aluminium can recover as much as 95% of the energy required to produce it from bauxite. This improvement in energy efficiency means decreased carbon emissions and lower environmental impacts.
Recycling processes do not lower the quality of aluminum, making it reusable in the long term. As a consequence, about 75% of all the aluminum ever produced is in current use.
Used aluminium sheets, cans, trailers, and doors maintain a strong secondary market, further incentivizing collection and reuse. Industries and governments increasingly emphasize aluminium recycling as a cornerstone of circular economy strategies.
It is most commonly used in the fields of construction, transport, and packaging. In addition, its ubiquitous uses in consumer durables, aviation, and power distribution are mostly due to its versatility, resistance to corrosion, and recyclability.
It is utilized in a varied range of uses, ranging from lightweight structural elements to electrical conductors, to household foil as well as pharmaceuticals. Its applications reach from important industrial sectors to common products one will encounter daily.
Aluminium is used because it has desirable characteristics such as being light, durable, non-corroding, non-toxic, and high in conductivity. Its recyclability further makes it an economical as well as environmentally friendly choice in many industries.
What is palladium white gold alloy and how is it different from traditional white gold?White gold palladium is an alloy created from the blending of pure gold with the platinum group metal palladium. The standard alloy is 75% gold (18K) with 10–25% palladium, with traces of silver or copper sometimes added in for workability. Unlike the use of nickel as decolorizer in routine white golds, palladium has the benefit of providing naturally occurring whiteness without the loss of hypoallergenic properties.
It is prized as lighter than platinum. The exact ratio of the palladium alloy to gold will determine the color, strength, and acceptability as jewelry. Higher gold percentages in an 18K palladium white gold ring retains value with the warm undertone, while durability is prioritized in the 14K alternatives.
Aesthetically, palladium white gold is characterized as having a silver-white color that is soft, shiny, and elegant in nature. It closely resembles platinum in color and is distinct from the yellowish color of nickel-alloyed unplated white gold.
Completed palladium white gold will stay whiter for longer and will not have to be plated with rhodium, as the other white gold alloys. The cooler look is ideal for clean, modern jewelry and to enhance diamonds’ fire, as opposed to rose or yellow gold.
Compared to traditional gold alloy with nickel, palladium white gold has many advantages:
There are compromises, however
These characteristics make it very desirable in beautiful gold jewelry especially in wedding and engagement rings where appearance as well as strength is the main consideration.
Palladium white gold is becoming increasingly popular in jewelry design, especially for:
Luxury jewelers increasingly use palladium alloys in premium collections designed to appeal to consumers who value appearance and strength. The metal’s own distinctive cool sheen enhances the brilliance of gemstones and is conducive to a variety of styles, from conventional to contemporary.
Palladium white gold is quite easy to maintain.
Compared to traditional white gold, it typically needs less frequent rhodium re-coating application, reducing long-term maintenance. Jewelers recommend storing it separately to avoid scratching and suggest cleaning it before storing to maintain its shine.
To ensure the authenticity of palladium white gold purchases:
High-quality gold jewelry pieces will also come with certification and detailed metal composition. Avoid unmarked or ambiguously labeled items, as they may contain lower-value alloys or different metal compositions.
White gold palladium is an upscale alloy created as palladium is combined with gold. The alloy is used as an alternative to white gold, which is normally used with nickel. The palladium provides the alloy with a natural whiteness, further enhancing the alloy’s beauty while reducing the need for rhodium plating.
Palladium is a particular class of precious metal, while white gold is an alloy created from gold which can have palladium combined with some other metals like nickel or silver. The addition of palladium creates a stronger and hypoallergenic form of white gold, which has improved brightness.
The metal has a soft, silvery-white color that is brighter than traditional white gold that contains nickel. Unlike some types of white gold that require rhodium plating to whiten them, palladium white gold maintains its natural luster without relying on additional layers.
Palladium white gold has excellent resistance to tarnishing. With the palladium, which is considered a noble metal with non-oxidizing characteristics, the strength of the alloy is improved, so the color is maintained over long terms with little maintenance.
Weekly Metals News Digest – June 2 – 6Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has deepened its long-standing relationship with Hyundai Mobis, the major South Korean automotive components manufacturer, by signing a new agreement to significantly increase the supply of its CelestiAL brand solar-powered aluminium. The new agreement is a continuation of their collaboration, reflecting a mutual commitment to advancing sustainability within the automotive supply chain and responding to the growing global demand for environmentally conscious materials.
The terms of the renewed agreement specify a structured ramp-up in the delivery of CelestiAL aluminium. Shipments will commence with 8,000 tonnes this year and are scheduled to increase progressively to a target of 15,000 tonnes per year by 2026. CelestiAL is a premium brand of primary aluminium that stands out for its production process, which is powered entirely by electricity generated from a dedicated solar power plant. The metal has an exceptionally low carbon footprint, making it a highly desirable material for industries and nations with rigorous environmental standards and a strong focus on corporate sustainability. Underscoring its commitment to this green product line, EGA boosted its production of CelestiAL by 27% last year, achieving a total output of 80,000 tonnes.
Beyond the supply arrangement, the two companies have also formalized their intent to collaborate on research and development. This joint effort will concentrate on creating new, advanced aluminium alloys specifically designed to meet the evolving and demanding requirements of the automotive sector, with the goal of developing lighter, stronger, and more efficient vehicle components. Additionally, EGA and Hyundai Mobis are set to explore the potential for a comprehensive, long-term supply agreement covering a broader range of aluminium products, including various alloys and other semi-finished goods, which could be implemented after the current contract period ends in 2026.
As the largest primary aluminium producer in the Middle East, EGA operates two major plants with a combined annual capacity exceeding 2.3 million tonnes. The company’s global footprint is extensive, with a portfolio that includes a bauxite mine in Guinea, the solar power facility in the United Arab Emirates, a foundry in Germany, and a scrap recycling plant in the United States. In line with its international growth strategy, EGA’s management is also advancing plans to construct a new primary aluminium production facility in the United States, further solidifying its global presence.
Researchers at the University of Freiberg in Germany have achieved a breakthrough by developing a fundamentally new tin smelting technology that, if successfully brought to a commercial scale, could revolutionize the global market for this vital non-ferrous metal. The process utilizes hydrogen as the primary reducing agent, replacing traditional carbon-based methods and dramatically minimizing the carbon footprint associated with tin production.
The conventional method for producing tin from cassiterite, its natural oxide ore, is a carbothermic reduction process that involves high-temperature furnaces and carbon-rich fuels like wood or coal. While effective, this traditional technique releases substantial amounts of carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, contributing to atmospheric pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The new hydrogen-based direct reduction technology developed in Freiberg presents a much cleaner and more sustainable alternative, particularly when the hydrogen is generated through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources, which would create a nearly carbon-neutral production cycle.
During their experimental trials, the German research team successfully demonstrated the efficiency of this new method. Their results showed that using only three grams of hydrogen per 100 grams of cassiterite concentrate was sufficient to produce tin metal with a purity level exceeding 99%. Furthermore, a crucial secondary finding was that the slag produced during the process contained approximately 13% tin, which was subsequently extracted with high efficiency through a chemical leaching process. This indicates a high overall metal recovery rate and minimal waste generation. Similar innovations in the steel industry, where hydrogen-based reduction is being increasingly adopted to decarbonize iron production, show the potential for wider application.
Global tin mining in 2024 amounted to 300,000 tonnes. The leading producing countries were China with 64,000 tonnes and Indonesia with 50,000 tonnes, followed by Myanmar, Peru, and Brazil. The introduction of a viable low-carbon smelting technology could provide a competitive advantage to producers who adopt it, as both market and regulatory pressures for sustainably sourced materials continue to intensify.
The situation surrounding the Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium-Magnesium Combine (UKTMK) in Kazakhstan remains tense following an industrial accident in late May, raising concerns that could have repercussions for the global titanium market. The incident reportedly involved a chlorine gas leak during an unscheduled preventive cleaning of a chlorination unit, prompting an investigation by local authorities to assess the circumstances and potential threats.
As the sole producer of titanium in Kazakhstan, UKTMK is a critical player in the global supply of this strategic metal, which is indispensable for the aerospace industry due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. Last year, Kazakhstan produced 14,000 tonnes of titanium sponge, a key raw material. While this is less than the output from China (220,000 tonnes), Japan (55,000 tonnes), and Russia (20,000 tonnes), Kazakhstan’s contribution is vital, particularly for aerospace applications. A potential shutdown or even disruption at UKTMK could send shockwaves through the market, with analysts predicting a possible price surge of 20–25%. Global production capacity is already fully utilized, and there is little spare capacity to compensate for a loss of Kazakh supply, which could lead to a deficit of up to 14,000 tonnes.
The consequences for key customers would be severe. Major aircraft manufacturers, including the American company Boeing and its European competitor Airbus, rely on UKTMK for a portion of their titanium supplies. A supply disruption would create serious interruptions in their long-term production schedules. Boeing, which recently secured massive contracts from Qatar Airways for 210 aircraft (worth nearly $100 billion) and from Etihad Airways for 28 airliners ($14.5 billion), cannot afford such disruptions. Any interruption in its titanium supply chain could lead to a failure to fulfill these orders, resulting in staggering financial losses from which the company might struggle to recover for many years. Similarly, Airbus, which needs to secure more orders to remain competitive with Boeing, would see its production capacity severely curtailed by a titanium shortage.
In light of these circumstances, the incident highlights the strategic vulnerability of these aerospace giants. It would be prudent for both Boeing and Airbus to reconsider their previous decisions to halt titanium purchases from Russia, as failing to secure alternative, reliable supply lines in the face of such disruptions could expose them to heavy and potentially crippling losses.
Nornickel, in a joint effort with Ekofes, has developed an innovative application for palladium by creating specialized electrodes for use in advanced water purification systems. The technology involves applying an active coating containing palladium to electrodes, which are then used to produce sodium hypochlorite—a powerful disinfecting compound—directly from simple table salt and water through an electrochemical process.
The palladium coating reduces the operating voltage required on the electrodes, which in turn lowers electricity consumption by approximately 19%. At the same time, it extends the service life of the electrodes by almost double and increases the total amount of sodium hypochlorite produced, making the entire process more efficient and cost-effective.
This on-site generation method offers a stark contrast to traditional water disinfection practices, which often involve the transportation and storage of large quantities of bulk chlorine. In Russia alone, chlorine consumption for water disinfection is estimated at 80,000 to 100,000 tonnes annually, a process that carries logistical challenges and safety risks, including the potential for leaks that could cause serious harm to human health and the environment. In contrast, sodium hypochlorite generated directly at the point of use is much safer for handling in the concentrations used at water treatment plants. It effectively destroys pathogenic microorganisms and then safely decomposes in nature into harmless components: table salt, water, and oxygen.
Nornickel has set its sights on developing a fundamentally new area of application for palladium, one with enormous potential: the volume of wastewater discharged in Russia exceeds 35 billion cubic meters annually, while worldwide it reaches around 400 billion cubic meters. The introduction of palladium for wastewater disinfection could create additional demand for palladium in the short term of up to 5 tonnes.
The implementation of this and other projects aimed at developing and commercializing innovative palladium-based products reflects Nornickel’s strategy of creating promising markets that can replace traditional ones, such as the manufacture of catalysts for internal combustion engines. In this way, it ensures business stability and maximizes shareholder value amid the transformation of global palladium consumption.
Solus Advanced Materials, a South Korean manufacturer of copper foil, has secured an agreement with China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) to supply its plants in Europe. This deal will see Solus deliver electrolytic copper foil from its two production facilities in Hungary, which have a combined total capacity of 38,000 tonnes per year—sufficient to produce components for approximately 1.5 million lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles.
As a leading global manufacturer of high-performance copper foil, Solus Advanced Materials is known for its advanced products, including an ultra-thin foil with a thickness of just 4.5 micrometers. The company is also expanding its global footprint with the construction of a new plant in Canada, which is set to begin production next year with an initial capacity of 25,000 tonnes of copper foil annually. This North American facility will enable Solus to strengthen its position in that key regional market.
CATL, the world’s largest manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, is also actively expanding its operations beyond China, with a major focus on the European Union and the United States. The company already operates a battery plant in Germany and is on track to open an even larger facility in Hungary by the end of 2025. The agreement with Solus is strategically important for both parties. It provides Solus with a key contract to supply a global industry leader, while CATL secures a localized European supply chain for a critical battery component, which is vital for its ambitious expansion plans. The partnership will also explore opportunities for joint research and development initiatives.
Over the past decade, Hungary has emerged as a major European hub for the production of lithium-ion batteries, attracting investments from other industry giants such as Samsung and SK Innovation. Global copper foil production capacity surpassed 2.4 million tonnes in 2024, although actual production was closer to 1.4 million tonnes. The majority of this capacity is concentrated in China, with South Korean firms like Solus competing vigorously in the global market. In the long term, copper foil production is expected to grow, driven by the continued expansion of electric vehicle manufacturing. This growth potential is attracting new players to the market; for example, in March 2025, the Taiwanese company Prosperity Tieh Enterprise, which traditionally specializes in galvanized steel products, announced its intention to enter the market by starting copper foil manufacturing at its Hung You Copper plant.
Weekly Metals News Digest – May 26 – 30The Metals Company, a US-based firm, conducted a presentation showcasing ore samples extracted from 4-kilometer depths in international waters. The event drew representatives from major global non-ferrous metals companies, including Mitsubishi, Glencore, and Panasonic Energy. The samples demonstrated high concentrations of nickel, cobalt, and copper, highlighting the potential of deep-sea mining operations.
Three distinct types of marine non-ferrous metal deposits exist in ocean environments. Polymetallic nodules represent the first category, found on abyssal plains and partially covered by fine sediments. These formations contain iron, copper, manganese, nickel, lead, cobalt, zinc, and notable quantities of lithium, molybdenum, titanium, and niobium. The second type comprises cobalt crusts that develop on underwater mountain slopes and peaks at depths ranging from 400 meters to 7 kilometers through mineral precipitation from seawater. These crusts hold manganese, iron, copper, nickel, cobalt, and various rare metals, including rare earth elements. Polymetallic sulfides constitute the third category, rich in iron, copper, zinc, silver, and gold, typically located at tectonic plate boundaries along mid-ocean ridges and volcanic arcs at approximately 2-kilometer depths.
Currently, no industrial-scale mineral extraction occurs in international waters. The International Seabed Authority regulates all mineral extraction activities in these areas and has issued 31 exploration licenses: 19 for polymetallic nodules primarily in the central Pacific Ocean, 7 for polymetallic sulfides along mid-ocean ridges, and 5 for cobalt-rich crusts in the western Pacific.
Environmental concerns surrounding deep-sea mining operations focus on emissions from seabed mining equipment and surface vessels. Excessive concentrations of exhaust particles in water could trigger irreversible ecological consequences, though acceptable threshold levels remain undefined. Natural seabed conditions maintain very low concentrations of such substances, suggesting tolerance levels may be minimal. Metal particles released during extraction from pore water and crushed ore can persist in ocean environments for up to 1,000 years, far longer than exhaust particles. In the mesopelagic zone, spanning 200 meters to 1 kilometer depth where complete darkness prevails, mercury contamination could enter seafood consumed by humans, potentially causing severe health impacts.
Mining equipment noise will create stressful conditions for marine organisms, affecting larval development, hunting patterns, and communication among marine mammals. These effects will be particularly pronounced in mountainous underwater regions where marine life congregates. Vertical migration patterns may be disrupted, potentially destabilizing ocean food chains. Despite these environmental threats, exploration and development projects for deep-sea non-ferrous metal deposits are expected to continue in coming years.
The World Platinum Investment Council released its first quarter 2025 platinum market report, revising the global platinum supply deficit forecast for the third time to 966,000 ounces for the current year. Global demand in the first quarter increased 10% year-on-year to 2.274 million ounces, driven primarily by high investment demand linked to sharp increases in platinum exchange reserves. Tariff uncertainty and growing location premiums contributed to increased metal inflows to the United States.
Total platinum supply declined 10% to 1.458 million ounces, reflecting seasonal weakness in the mining sector during the first quarter. This created a deficit of 816,000 ounces in the reporting period, representing the largest quarterly deficit in six years. The projected total supply for 2025 represents the lowest level in five years, with total supply expected to decline 4% to 6.999 million ounces. The Council forecasts demand could fall 4% to 7.965 million ounces in 2025, as growth in jewelry and investment sectors will not fully offset declining automotive and industrial demand.
Mine supply is expected to contract significantly this year. Total mining sector supply fell 13% year-on-year in the first quarter to 1.086 million ounces, the lowest quarterly production since 2020. Weakness across all major producing regions except Russia contributed to the decline, with South Africa experiencing the bulk of the reduction due to heavy rainfall, leading to a 10% year-on-year drop in refined platinum production to 715,000 ounces. The decline in total supply was partially offset by a 2% year-on-year increase in secondary processing to 372,000 ounces, resulting in total supply falling 10% year-on-year to 1.458 million ounces in the first quarter.
Full-year mining industry supply is expected to reach only 5.426 million ounces, down 6% and approximately 701,000 ounces below the five-year pre-pandemic average. Global secondary recycling is forecast to show modest recovery in 2025, increasing 3% year-on-year to 1.573 million ounces.
Jewelry demand continued its recovery and is expected to grow 5% in 2025. First quarter platinum jewelry demand grew in all regions except India, increasing 9% to 533,000 ounces. Jewelry demand is expected to continue recovering throughout 2025, building on 2024 growth, increasing 5% year-on-year to 2.114 million ounces as platinum benefits from its price discount relative to gold. China is expected to see significant growth of 15% year-on-year to 474,000 ounces, while European demand is forecast to grow 7% to reach record levels. North America will also experience growth of 8%, while Indian demand may weaken 10% year-on-year to 240,000 ounces due to declining exports amid US tariff uncertainty.
Investment demand in 2025 is expected to remain stable, supported by a 48% increase in Chinese bar and coin demand. First quarter investment demand for platinum rose 28% compared to the previous quarter to 461,000 ounces, mainly due to sharp increases in exchange-held platinum stocks. Bar and coin demand also increased 17% year-on-year to 70,000 ounces, with Chinese purchases of platinum investment bars weighing less than 500 grams reaching record highs, growing 140% year-on-year to 31,000 ounces and offsetting declines in other regions. Investment in bars and coins is forecast to strengthen 30% to 252,000 ounces.
According to Trevor Raymond, CEO of the World Platinum Investment Council, the platinum market remains in structural deficit regardless of current geopolitical uncertainties.
Nigeria’s first lithium mining and processing plant is scheduled for commissioning in June near the Kaduna-Niger state border, according to Nigerian Minister of Mines and Mineral Resources Dele Alake. The project requires approximately $600 million in investment and is expected to produce 4,000 tonnes of ore daily, from which up to 1,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate containing 6% lithium oxide can be extracted. This material will be processed at a nearby facility to produce approximately 35,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate annually.
Chinese company Ming Xin Mineral Separation is the majority investor in partnership with Nigerian company Three Crown Mines. Three Crown Mines is also involved in constructing three similar facilities: one launching soon on the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, and two additional plants in Nasarawa State.
These projects involve Chinese companies Canmax Technology, Jiuling Lithium Mining, and Avatar New Energy Materials. According to estimates by Nigerian company El-Tahdam Exploration, total national lithium carbonate production capacity could reach 80,000 tonnes annually. Minister Dele Alake emphasized the focus on converting mineral wealth into domestic economic value through job creation, technology development, and processing capacity.
Nigeria currently hosts a thriving illegal mining industry supplying lithium raw materials to China and India. Over the past decade, more than 20 mines have emerged, employing primarily women and children. Nigerian government attempts to shut down these operations have proven unsuccessful due to high unemployment rates, with people continuing to work in underground mines despite constant life-threatening risks.
Global copper production in the first quarter of 2025 grew 1.2% to 5.6 million tonnes, with concentrate output increasing 1.4% and copper electro-extraction rising 0.5%, according to the International Copper Study Group. Primary growth centers were the Democratic Republic of Congo and Peru, with stable performance in Chile, while declines were recorded in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Indonesia. Indonesian production declined significantly due to operational adjustments at the Grasberg mine, considered the world’s largest copper operation.
Refined copper production increased 3% to 7.1 million tonnes in January-March. Red metal production from ore rose 3% to almost 5.9 million tonnes, while production from scrap and waste increased 3.5% to 1.2 million tonnes. Geographically, strong growth in copper production was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo, China, and India, offset by declines in Chile.
Apparent global copper consumption showed similar growth to production at 3%, reaching approximately 6.8 million tonnes in the first quarter. Demand for copper was strong in several Middle Eastern, Asian, and North African countries, but weakened in the United States, European Union, and Japan.
These dynamics resulted in a copper surplus of 289,000 tonnes according to International Copper Study Group calculations. However, this surplus may decline significantly by the end of the first half due to various market factors. International trader Glencore has been purchasing Russian copper on the London Metal Exchange with plans to supply it to China.
Exchange data shows requests for delivery of approximately 15,000 tonnes of copper from London Metal Exchange warehouses were received during three trading sessions, reducing available exchange stocks to their lowest level in a year. Glencore’s transactions likely respond to challenging market conditions in China following Donald Trump’s tariff threats on copper imports, which led to massive metal volumes being redirected to the United States. This prompted traders to purchase copper on the LME for delivery to the Chinese market.
Mining corporation Anglo American completed the spin-off of its platinum metals division into a separate company called Valterra Platinum. The new entity has been listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and is preparing for a London Stock Exchange listing. However, initial trading on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange was marked by declining share prices, reflecting market participants’ skepticism about the company’s condition despite positive statements from Anglo American management prior to the spin-off.
For 2025 and 2026, the company plans to produce 3-3.4 million ounces of platinum group metals, including 2.1-2.3 million ounces at its own facilities with the remainder through tolling arrangements. In 2027, production is targeted at 3-3.5 million ounces, with 2.3-2.5 million ounces directly at Valterra Platinum facilities.
The establishment of Valterra Platinum forms part of Anglo American’s asset portfolio restructuring strategy, which includes selling nickel mining operations in Brazil and coking coal operations in Australia. The company is also exploring options for selling its stake in De Beers, the world’s leading diamond miner, which faces revenue challenges from cheap synthetic stones and weak demand in India.
Valterra Platinum CEO Craig Miller sees significant potential for platinum price increases due to projected global shortages caused by renewed demand from jewelry manufacturers and automakers using platinum catalysts. Valterra Platinum management plans to distribute 40% of net profits to security holders and may consider share buybacks if platinum and platinum metal prices trend toward sustained growth and excess cash becomes available.
Weekly Metals News Digest – May 19 – 23Transition Elements, a Norwegian company, has submitted an application to the prefecture of the Hérault department in southern France for an exclusive license to explore and prospect for lithium deposits. The company’s proposal covers a 218-square-kilometer area, where it intends to conduct a multi-phase geological exploration program. The initial stage will focus on collecting rock samples and mapping the area, followed by at least a year of geological analysis. Subsequently, geophysical surveys are planned to further assess the site’s potential.
This application is part of a broader licensing contest for lithium exploration in the region, which was announced in April and will continue until July. The authorities have not yet indicated whether Transition Elements’ application will be approved, and the process remains competitive and uncertain.
Local officials are paying close attention to the environmental implications of the project. Francis Barssa, the mayor of Bedarrie, noted that while it is too early to assess the potential benefits for the region, strict oversight of environmental risks is essential, particularly with respect to drilling wells that could intersect aquifers used for drinking water and irrigation.
Geologists have identified promising lithium concentrations in both igneous and sedimentary rocks in the region, but the true extent of the reserves will depend on the results of detailed exploration. Transition Elements aims to extract lithium from underground brines, a method that involves bringing the brine to the surface, separating the lithium, and then reinjecting the processed brine underground. The targeted brines are located below the aquifers that supply water to local communities and agricultural operations.
Currently, France does not produce lithium domestically, but the government is actively encouraging exploration and development of lithium resources to support the country’s electric vehicle and battery industries. This initiative aligns with broader European efforts to secure critical raw materials and reduce reliance on imports.
Emirates Global Aluminium has announced plans to invest $4 billion in constructing a new aluminium plant in the United States, with a projected annual capacity of 600,000 tonnes. This facility, which is expected to be located near the river port of Tulsa, Oklahoma, would nearly double the country’s primary aluminium production capacity.
The announcement comes soon after a visit by US President Donald Trump to Gulf countries, during which the UAE government pledged $200 billion in investments by national businesses in the US economy. Emirates Global Aluminium’s decision to build in the US is also influenced by the desire to avoid high tariffs on aluminium imports, including a 25% aluminium tariff and an additional 10% reciprocal tariff.
In November of the previous year, Emirates Global Aluminium acquired Spectro Alloys, an American aluminium scrap recycler. The company plans to expand Spectro Alloys’ operations by adding a new line for producing recycled aluminium profiles with a capacity of 55,000 tonnes per year, supplementing the existing smelting furnaces with a total capacity of 110,000 tonnes per year.
Discussions are underway with Oklahoma state authorities regarding long-term electricity supply contracts and potential tax and other incentives for the new plant. The feasibility study for the project is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026, with construction scheduled to begin later that year. The first phase of the plant is anticipated to be commissioned no earlier than 2030.
In a related development, Century Aluminum, a US-based company, announced at the beginning of 2025 that it would begin work on a new primary aluminium smelter. The location for this facility has not yet been finalized, but the company is considering sites in the Ohio or Mississippi River basins. Century Aluminum projects that construction will create 5,500 jobs, with over 1,000 permanent positions to follow. The company is partnering with local colleges to recruit and train workers for the new facility.
Century Aluminum previously secured a $500 million grant from the US Department of Energy and signed a cooperation agreement as part of efforts to strengthen domestic industry and lower carbon emissions. These funds are being provided under infrastructure and job investment and inflation reduction laws.
Aluminium remains a critical metal for the US economy, supporting industries such as automotive manufacturing and food packaging. Despite this, primary aluminium production in the US has declined due to high electricity costs and fluctuations in alumina prices. In 2019, the US produced 1 million tonnes of primary aluminium and 3 million tonnes of secondary aluminium. By 2023, primary production had dropped to 750,000 tonnes, while imports of aluminium and aluminium-based products rose to 4.8 million tonnes to make up for the shortfall.
BHP Group and Lundin Mining have reached an agreement to jointly acquire Filo Corporation, which is developing the Filo del Sol deposit on the border between Argentina and Chile. This copper deposit is regarded as one of the world’s largest, with current estimates indicating at least 13 million tonnes of copper, alongside substantial gold and silver reserves. Ongoing drilling suggests that the scale of the deposit could increase even further.
The acquisition takes place amid forecasts of a global copper shortage and rising demand for copper, particularly for use in renewable energy infrastructure, electric vehicles, and other technologies linked to the energy transition. The development of new copper deposits is becoming increasingly complex and costly, leading to a wave of mergers and acquisitions in the mining sector as companies seek to secure future supply.
Preliminary resource estimates for Filo del Sol indicate resources of 22.3 million ounces of gold, 8.2 million tonnes of copper, and 600 million ounces of silver. The capital investment required for the project is estimated at $1.8 billion. Once operational, the mine could produce 66,000 tonnes of copper, 168,000 ounces of gold, and 9.25 million ounces of silver annually. The payback period for the project is estimated at 3.5 years, with a projected mine life of 13 years.
Filo Corporation is also responsible for developing the Josemaria deposit, which contains 4.6 million tonnes of copper, 9.8 million ounces of gold, and 59 million ounces of silver. Like Filo del Sol, Josemaria is located along the Argentina-Chile border. Both projects require substantial investment and will take several years to reach full-scale industrial production, but they are expected to play a significant role in meeting future copper demand.
Aluminium Dunkerque, the largest primary aluminium producer in France with an annual capacity of 300,000 tonnes, has announced the commissioning of its eighth aluminium scrap remelting furnace. The new furnace has a capacity of 10 tonnes per hour and is expected to produce around 20,000 tonnes of secondary aluminium annually. This addition will help Aluminium Dunkerque reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and lower its specific electricity consumption.
According to CEO Guillaume de Goa, France currently exports about 500,000 tonnes of aluminium scrap each year. By increasing domestic recycling capacity, the country can retain more strategic metal resources and contribute to climate change mitigation efforts. The new furnace is part of a broader strategy to enhance the sustainability of aluminium production in France.
In conjunction with the new furnace, Aluminium Dunkerque has signed a ten-year electricity supply agreement with EDF, the French state-owned nuclear power operator. The contract, which will take effect on 1 January 2026, will ensure that most of Aluminium Dunkerque’s energy needs are met with carbon-free nuclear power. This move is expected to further reduce the carbon footprint of the company’s operations and provide long-term stability for its energy supply.
Cobalt Holdings has announced plans to launch an initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange in June, which could become the largest UK IPO in over two years. The company expects to raise approximately $230 million through the offering. Major investors in the IPO include international trader Glencore and investment firm Anchorage Structured Commodities Advisor, which will collectively acquire 20.5% of the shares on offer.
Cobalt Holdings specializes in the purchase and storage of cobalt, a metal essential for battery production. The company’s business model allows investors to gain exposure to cobalt without the direct risks associated with mining and exploration. CEO Jake Greenberg has emphasized that this approach provides a more accessible way for investors to participate in the cobalt market.
The company has also secured a six-year supply contract with Glencore, under which Glencore will provide cobalt worth up to $1 billion. The first phase of this agreement involves the delivery of 6,000 tonnes of cobalt at a discount to the current spot price, valued at $200 million. Additionally, Cobalt Holdings has entered into an agreement with Anchorage Structured Commodities Advisor to purchase 1,500 tonnes of cobalt in 2031.
According to the US Geological Survey, global cobalt mine production reached 290,000 tonnes in 2024, with the Democratic Republic of Congo accounting for 220,000 tonnes, Indonesia for 28,000 tonnes, and Canada for 4,500 tonnes. China remains the dominant player in refined cobalt production, accounting for 75% of global output and exerting significant influence over world prices.
Cobalt prices have experienced considerable volatility in recent months. In February, prices on the London Metal Exchange fell to a multi-year low of $21,550 per tonne. Following a four-month export ban imposed by the Democratic Republic of Congo, prices surged to nearly $36,200 per tonne before stabilizing at around $33,700.
The Cobalt Institute forecasts that global demand for cobalt will grow by an average of 7% per year, reaching 400,000 tonnes by the early 2030s. This growth will be driven primarily by the expansion of electric vehicle production. In 2024, global cobalt consumption was 222,000 tonnes, with electric vehicles accounting for 43% of demand. By 2030, this share is expected to rise to 57%, while demand from other sectors, such as electronics and superalloys, is expected to slow. The global cobalt market was in surplus by 36,000 tonnes in 2024, compared with a surplus of 25,000 tonnes in 2023.
Palladium: uses, properties, and fascinating facts about the rare metalPalladium (Pd) is a lustrous, silver-white metal belonging to the platinum group metals (PGMs). It is renowned for its high catalytic activity, chemical inertness, and exceptional ability to absorb hydrogen, which makes it highly valuable across numerous advanced technologies.
Key physical and chemical properties include:
Its unique ability to catalyze chemical reactions and withstand harsh conditions has made palladium chemistry critical in industrial and scientific applications.
The primary industrial use of palladium is in automotive catalytic converters, where it helps reduce harmful emissions by converting hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances. This application alone accounts for about 75% of global palladium demand.
Beyond automobiles, palladium is also used in:
As palladium usage expands with the growth of clean technologies, its strategic importance in the palladium industry continues to rise.
Palladium jewelry has grown in popularity due to its natural whiteness, lightweight feel, and hypoallergenic properties. It’s often used as:
Unlike rhodium, palladium does not require regular plating, making it low-maintenance for daily wear. Its use in fashion has surged, especially after hallmarking regulations in Europe and North America formally recognized palladium as a precious metal.
From an environmental perspective, palladium plays a vital role in emissions control, helping countries meet clean air standards. Its use in catalytic converters directly supports reductions in urban smog and greenhouse gas emissions.
Economically, palladium is one of the most valuable and volatile precious metals on the market. Prices surged past $3,000 per ounce in 2021 and early 2022 due to tight supply and regulatory shifts boosting demand. Key economic factors include:
With growing demand from green technologies and limited mining capacity, palladium remains a critical and closely watched commodity.
Palladium is valuable due to its scarcity, heavy use in emission-reducing technologies, and growing demand from automotive and clean energy sectors. Its limited supply — mainly from Russia and South Africa — and high catalytic efficiency make it indispensable and expensive.
The automotive industry is the largest user of palladium, consuming over 80% of annual production for catalytic converters in gasoline engines. Other key sectors include electronics, hydrogen purification, and dental applications.
In terms of industrial utility, palladium is often more valuable than gold. While gold is mainly used for investment and adornment, palladium has critical functional roles in clean technologies, electronics, and chemical manufacturing. However, gold retains a broader appeal for wealth storage.
The main use of palladium is in catalytic converters for vehicles. It enables the reduction of toxic exhaust emissions, making it essential for meeting global environmental regulations and improving air quality.
Palladium: properties, synthesis methods, and diverse applicationsPalladium (Pd) is a soft, silvery-white metal belonging to the platinum group metals (PGMs), widely valued for its catalytic properties, corrosion resistance, and hydrogen absorption capabilities.
Key properties include:
These attributes make palladium essential across a variety of cutting-edge technologies and scientific applications.
Palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) are synthesized using diverse methods tailored for specific sizes, shapes, and surface chemistries. Common synthesis approaches include:
Palladium salts (such as PdCl₂) are reduced using agents like sodium borohydride or hydrazine. Surfactants (e.g., PVP, citrate) are added to stabilize particles and control morphology.
This method uses organometallic palladium precursors that decompose under heat in organic solvents to form monodispersed PdNPs. It’s often applied for catalyst production with uniform particle size.
Eco-friendly “green” synthesis uses plant extracts or microorganisms to reduce Pd ions, offering sustainable alternatives with minimal toxicity — a growing trend in nanomedicine and environmental science.
The chosen synthesis method influences particle size, crystallinity, catalytic performance, and compatibility with various applications.
Palladium nanoparticles are central to numerous high-performance industrial processes. Key applications include:
Their large surface area and tunable activity make PdNPs superior to bulk palladium in many applications.
In biomedicine, palladium nanoparticles are emerging as multifunctional agents due to their biocompatibility, chemical reactivity, and easy surface modification.
Applications include:
These developments underscore palladium’s potential in personalized medicine and advanced diagnostics.
Palladium is a strategic material with strong implications for environmental protection and global markets.
Its dual value — as an industrial material and investment asset — underscores its importance in both technology and finance.
Palladium nanoparticles are ultra-small particles (1–100 nm) of palladium metal with enhanced catalytic, electronic, and optical properties, widely used in clean energy, medicine, and industrial catalysis.
Pd nanoparticles are used in:
Applications span:
The main use of palladium is in automotive catalytic converters, where it helps transform harmful gases into less toxic substances, making it critical for environmental protection and emissions control.
Interesting facts about copper: history, science, and surprising usesCopper is one of the oldest metals known to humanity. Archaeological evidence shows that it was used over 10,000 years ago. The Çatalhöyük settlement in modern-day Turkey, dating back to around 7500 BCE, contains some of the earliest examples of copper tools.
During the Bronze Age, copper was alloyed with tin to create bronze, marking a major leap in toolmaking and societal development. The metal was so essential that entire civilizations — like those of Mesopotamia and Egypt — flourished around copper mining and trade.
In ancient Egypt, copper was symbolically linked to life and fertility and used in religious artifacts. The Romans utilized copper extensively in plumbing, giving rise to the Latin word cuprum — the origin of the modern element symbol Cu.
Copper is a ductile, malleable metal with excellent thermal and electrical conductivity — second only to silver. Its reddish hue makes it easily recognizable and distinct from other metals.
Biologically, copper plays a vital role in human health. It helps with:
In nature, copper exists in trace amounts in soil, water, and living organisms. Marine animals like octopuses use a copper-based molecule called hemocyanin for oxygen transport — similar to how humans use iron-based hemoglobin.
Today, copper is indispensable in modern life. It is used in:
A typical electric vehicle contains up to 80 kg of copper, and global demand is expected to soar as the world transitions to clean energy. Its reliability and efficiency make copper a cornerstone of modern infrastructure.
Copper stands out for its sustainability. It is 100% recyclable without loss of quality. Recycled copper meets about 35% of global demand, significantly reducing the need for new mining.
Recycling copper requires up to 85% less energy than primary production, lowering carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Because of its long lifespan and reusability, copper is a model metal for circular economy systems.
Moreover, copper’s antimicrobial properties reduce the spread of bacteria, making it useful in public spaces, hospitals, and water purification systems — another sustainability benefit often overlooked.
Here are some lesser-known copper facts that might surprise you:
Copper has long been associated with beauty, healing, and protection. In alchemy, it was symbolized by Venus, reflecting its connection to femininity and love. Many cultures believed copper had healing powers and wore it to treat arthritis and inflammation.
In architecture, copper’s elegance and patina make it a favorite for roofs, domes, and sculptures — from medieval European churches to modern design icons.
In mythology and folklore, copper was considered a bridge between earthly and divine forces. The Greeks linked it to Aphrodite, while in Hinduism, copper utensils are used in ritual purification.
Its presence in coins, jewelry, and art over millennia underscores its enduring cultural and aesthetic value.
Copper is special due to its unique combination of conductivity, malleability, and antimicrobial properties. It plays a crucial role in technology, health, and sustainability. Its historical and symbolic significance also sets it apart from other metals.
Nickel is a lustrous, silver-white metal known for its magnetism, durability, and corrosion resistance. It is one of only a few elements that is ferromagnetic at room temperature, making it valuable in a wide range of magnetic and electronic applications.
Key characteristics of nickel include:
Because of its mechanical strength and resistance to heat and chemicals, nickel is widely used in demanding industrial conditions.
The name “nickel” comes from the German word Kupfernickel, meaning “Devil’s copper.” Medieval miners in Saxony (now Germany) thought they were extracting copper, only to be frustrated when the ore yielded nothing usable — blaming it on mischievous spirits called Nickel.
Nickel was officially identified as a distinct element in 1751 by Swedish chemist Axel Fredrik Cronstedt, who isolated it from the mineral now known as nickeline.
Long before its official discovery, however, nickel-rich alloys were used in ancient China as early as the 3rd century BCE. Archaeological evidence shows that “white copper” coins from the region contained nickel, likely from natural alloys.
Nickel is a critical component of modern technology and infrastructure. Its versatility supports numerous industries:
Nickel’s importance in the green transition is growing rapidly, with demand from the EV and energy storage sectors forecast to rise steeply.
Nickel has often been associated with value and strength, though it rarely holds the spotlight like gold or silver. In the United States, the 5-cent coin is famously called a “nickel”, which contains 25% nickel and 75% copper.
In modern branding and symbolism:
Nickel’s unique combination of magnetic properties, corrosion resistance, and ability to form heat- and pressure-resistant alloys makes it indispensable in both traditional and high-tech industries — from steel to space exploration.
Nickel is considered moderately hard. It is strong enough for industrial use and resistant to deformation, but still malleable and workable — especially when alloyed with other metals to enhance specific mechanical properties.
Metals and Mining Digest May 12–16Rio Tinto, working in collaboration with Indium Corporation, has completed the first phase of a research initiative aimed at producing gallium, a rare metal. The companies have successfully produced a pilot batch of gallium, marking a key milestone in the project. The next phase will focus on evaluating the efficiency of extracting gallium from bauxite during the alumina production process. Should this stage prove successful, plans are in place to construct an experimental facility in Quebec, Canada, with a projected capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes of gallium per year. The companies are seeking financial backing from provincial authorities in Quebec for this development.
If the project advances as planned, the final stage will involve establishing full-scale industrial gallium production at the Vaudreuil alumina plant, which is currently the only alumina facility of its kind in Canada and is operated by Rio Tinto. Gallium is primarily obtained as a byproduct during the processing of bauxite and nepheline into alumina, which is then used in aluminium production. It can also be extracted from coal and from water produced during oil and gas extraction. Notably, Altona Rare Earths recently reported finding unusually high concentrations of gallium in fluorite, which is rare for this mineral.
Global gallium production is limited, with only 760 tonnes produced annually. Of this, China is responsible for 750 tonnes, while the remainder comes from Japan, South Korea, and Russia. In Europe, the European Commission has recently designated a project by Greece’s Metlen Energy & Metals to build a 50-tonne-per-year gallium plant as a strategic initiative.
Gallium is used mainly in the manufacture of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and semiconductors. It also has applications in thermometers as a non-toxic alternative to mercury, as a coolant in nuclear reactors, and in the production of metal adhesives. New uses are emerging, such as in China, where high-power charging stations for electric vehicles have been developed using hollow tubes filled with liquid gallium instead of traditional copper cables, improving heat dissipation during charging. Japanese companies Mazda and Rohm Semiconductor are also developing gallium-based components for electric vehicles, aiming to make them lighter and more compact than silicon-based alternatives. In another development, Australian scientists have created a catalyst from palladium dissolved in liquid gallium, which accelerates chemical reactions by up to 10,000 times. This catalyst could be used for converting carbon dioxide into methanol at low temperatures or for purifying industrial wastewater.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has warned that a looming shortage of copper could slow the rollout of digital technologies and the global shift to green energy. Their forecast suggests that copper demand will rise by more than 40% over the next 15 years. This increase will be driven by the growing production of electric vehicles and solar panels, the expansion of data centers and smart grids, and greater use of copper in water supply systems, where its resistance to bacterial and algal growth is valued.
A major challenge is the decreasing number of large copper deposits being developed, especially those located in favorable geographic and geological regions. The rate of new discoveries is low, and it can take up to 25 years for a new deposit to move from discovery to production. Over half of the world’s proven copper reserves are located in Peru, Chile, Congo, Russia, and Australia. In terms of processing, China dominates, producing 45–50% of the world’s cathode copper and importing up to 60% of copper ore.
Many countries with copper resources primarily export concentrates, missing out on the added value of processing them into cathode copper and manufacturing finished products. UNCTAD has identified the development of copper scrap and waste recycling as a way to help close the supply gap. In 2023, secondary sources contributed 4.5 million tonnes, nearly 20% of global refined copper production. The United States, Germany, and Japan are the largest exporters of copper scrap, while China, Canada, and South Korea are the leading importers.
This outlook is supported by BHP Group, which also forecasts that copper consumption could exceed 50 million tonnes by 2050. However, the pace of new copper mining projects is slow, and it is estimated that an investment of $250 billion will be required to accelerate the development of new deposits. Without this, the copper deficit could reach 10 million tonnes.
Westwin Elements has announced plans to build the first nickel production plant in the United States. The company has secured a $188 million loan from the U.S. Export-Import Bank to support the project. According to the US Geological Survey, global nickel ore production in the past year reached 3.7 million tonnes (pure metal equivalent), with Indonesia leading at 2.2 million tonnes, followed by the Philippines and Canada. The United States produced only 8,000 tonnes, which were exported due to the absence of domestic nickel refining facilities.
Despite strong demand, the US currently imports 100,000 tonnes of primary nickel and 40,000 tonnes of secondary nickel annually, mainly from Canada, Norway, Brazil, and Indonesia. Indonesia has become the world’s largest nickel producer, supplying many countries, including the US.
Westwin Elements plans to build a facility capable of processing 64,000 tonnes of nickel per year. The company will source raw materials from the global market and is also considering the future NorthMet copper-nickel mine in Minnesota as a potential supplier. CEO KaLeigh Long has stated that building the plant will help secure a skilled workforce and avoid deforestation by choosing a non-forested site. The facility will also help the US avoid high import duties and meet rising domestic demand, particularly from stainless steel and heat-resistant alloy manufacturers. Demand for nickel is expected to increase further due to growth in robotics and artificial intelligence.
The government of Guinea is considering revoking Emirates Global Aluminium’s mining license due to the company’s failure to meet requirements for building bauxite processing facilities. Under laws adopted in 2022 and 2023, all foreign companies mining bauxite in Guinea must begin local alumina production by 2027.
Guinea Alumina Corporation, majority-owned by Emirates Global Aluminium, began mining operations in 2019 and had reached an annual export volume of 14.1 million tonnes. However, in October 2024, the Guinean government suspended exports following a dispute over customs duties. Guinea produced 144 million tonnes of bauxite in 2024, making it the world’s largest supplier, but only the Friguia alumina plant, operated by Russia’s Rusal, is currently producing alumina in the country, with an output of just under 340,000 tonnes in 2024. In March, China’s SPIC International Investment and Development began constructing another alumina facility.
Guinea’s actions are part of a broader trend in West Africa, where countries such as Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are revising agreements with foreign mining companies to increase state revenues and capital investment in local economies. This follows the example set by Indonesia, which banned nickel ore exports and developed its domestic nickel industry.
Indonesia’s cobalt production capacity is expected to reach 114,630 tonnes by 2027, more than doubling the 55,630 tonnes produced last year, according to Septian Hario Seto of Indonesia’s National Economic Council. Indonesia is the world’s second-largest cobalt producer after the Democratic Republic of Congo. Earlier this year, Congo imposed a four-month ban on cobalt exports to support prices, which had fallen due to oversupply. The ban led to a swift increase in cobalt prices. Indonesia, however, does not currently plan to restrict exports.
The increase in Indonesian cobalt output is linked to higher nickel production, driven by the widespread adoption of high-pressure acid leaching technology for laterite ores. According to the Cobalt Institute, demand for cobalt is expected to outpace supply, with the market moving from surplus to deficit by the early 2030s.
Global cobalt supply is projected to grow by about 5% per year, but Congo’s share of the market is expected to fall from 76% in 2024 to 65% in 2030. Indonesia’s share is forecast to rise from 12% to 22% over the same period. Demand for cobalt, excluding government stockpiling, is expected to grow by an average of 7% annually, reaching 400,000 tonnes by the early 2030s. This growth will be driven mainly by the electric vehicle sector. In 2024, global cobalt consumption was 222,000 tonnes, with electric transport accounting for 43% of demand. By 2030, this share is expected to increase to 57%, while demand from other sectors such as electronics and superalloys is expected to slow. The cobalt market had a surplus of 36,000 tonnes in 2024, up from 25,000 tonnes in 2023.
Fascinating facts about platinum: from ancient origins to modern marvelsPlatinum is a dense, silvery-white metal that stands out for its remarkablea chemical stability, corrosion resistance, and high melting point of 1,768°C (3,214°F). It is part of the platinum group metals (PGMs), known for their catalytic properties and durability.
What makes platinum truly unique:
These qualities explain why platinum is invaluable across industries that require precision, reliability, and longevity.
Although platinum was officially identified in the 18th century, its history stretches back to ancient times. Pre-Columbian civilizations in South America, particularly in present-day Colombia and Ecuador, used platinum in ceremonial artifacts — often unknowingly alloyed with gold.
The metal first reached Europe in the 16th century via Spanish explorers who found it in river sands. They called it “platina”, or “little silver,” initially considering it an impurity in gold mining. It wasn’t until the mid-1700s that Antonio de Ulloa, a Spanish scientist and naval officer, described platinum in Europe.
By the 19th century, platinum had found its place in scientific instruments, jewelry, and even in the Royal Mint of the Russian Empire, which used it to mint coins due to its durability.
Today, platinum is essential to modern technology and innovation. Some of its most critical uses include:
Its performance under extreme conditions makes platinum irreplaceable in many high-tech environments. As global industries move toward decarbonization, platinum’s role in the hydrogen economy is expected to grow substantially.
Platinum symbolizes rarity, purity, and prestige. It is widely used in luxury branding — from platinum credit cards to “platinum-level” status in loyalty programs.
In awards and music, platinum records mark major commercial success, outranking even gold status. This association reflects the metal’s scarcity and value, as platinum is slightly rarer than gold in the Earth’s crust.
In jewelry, platinum is prized for its luster and durability. Unlike gold, it does not wear away easily, making it ideal for heirloom-quality items. Its hypoallergenic nature also makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
In some cultures, platinum represents eternal love and strength, reinforcing its popularity in wedding rings and anniversary gifts.
Platinum is rare because it forms under extremely specific geological conditions. It’s found in small quantities in only a few places worldwide, often alongside other PGMs and usually as a byproduct of nickel and copper mining. Extraction is complex and energy-intensive.
Platinum is slightly rarer than gold. While gold is distributed more widely and mined in larger volumes, platinum occurs in much lower concentrations and in fewer geological formations.
High-end and hypoallergenic jewelry.
How nickel powers electric vehicles: from battery chemistry to global supplyNickel plays a critical role in modern electric vehicle (EV) batteries, particularly in lithium-ion chemistries such as nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA). These nickel-rich cathodes are central to achieving higher energy density, which translates to longer driving ranges and better performance for EVs.
In battery cells, nickel contributes to the cathode’s ability to store and release energy, directly impacting the vehicle’s range and charging efficiency. Compared to earlier lithium-ion batteries that relied more on cobalt or manganese, nickel-rich designs can deliver more capacity per kilogram, making them ideal for high-performance EVs.
Notably, companies like Tesla, General Motors, and Volkswagen rely heavily on NCA and NMC chemistries in their premium models, where energy density and range are top priorities.
Batteries with a high nickel content offer several advantages that align with both industry goals and consumer expectations:
These benefits are driving a shift from older chemistries like LFP (lithium iron phosphate) in performance vehicles. For instance, Tesla’s long-range and performance models primarily use NCA or NMC batteries with high nickel content, depending on production location and model version, while more cost-sensitive models may use LFP.
According to the IEA, nickel demand from the EV sector is expected to grow by 2.5 to 3.5 times by 2030. This surge is reshaping global supply chains and encouraging new investment in refining capacity — particularly in North America and Europe, which aim to secure local sources for clean energy materials.
The rapid expansion of nickel mining raises serious environmental and ethical challenges. Key concerns include:
To address these issues, companies and governments are turning to:
Consumer awareness and regulatory pressure are pushing automakers to disclose supply chain practices, making sustainability a growing part of the nickel equation.
Nickel’s role in the EV market is expected to intensify over the next decade. Battery makers are experimenting with:
However, some automakers are also hedging against nickel volatility. BYD and Tesla, for example, are expanding their use of LFP batteries in lower-cost models due to their simpler supply chain and durability, though these chemistries typically have lower energy density.
In conclusion, while nickel remains essential for long-range EVs, the industry is evolving toward multi-chemistry solutions that balance cost, performance, and sustainability.
Yes, nickel is widely used in electric vehicles as a key component of lithium-ion battery cathodes. It helps increase energy density, enabling longer range and better performance. Nickel is also used in stainless steel parts and other structural components.
Yes, Tesla uses nickel-rich batteries, particularly NCA (nickel-cobalt-aluminum) cells, in its Model S, Model X, and long-range versions of Model 3 and Y. Tesla has actively sought new nickel supply sources to support its expansion.
Most premium electric vehicles use nickel-based lithium-ion batteries. These include:
Budget models may use LFP batteries, which do not contain nickel.
In early 2024, reports suggested that Nio faced losses of up to $35,000 per vehicle, though later estimates placed the figure closer to $11,000–$15,000, reflecting material costs, R&D, and inefficiencies. Nickel pricing and supply constraints were among the contributing factors.
Platinum nanoparticles: synthesis methods, properties, and applicationsPlatinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) can be synthesized through a variety of chemical, physical, and biological approaches, each offering specific advantages in terms of particle size, shape, and stability.
This is the most common approach, where platinum salts (e.g., H₂PtCl₆) are reduced using agents like sodium borohydride, hydrazine, or ascorbic acid. Surfactants or stabilizers such as PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) are often added to control particle size and prevent agglomeration.
Organometallic precursors are thermally decomposed in organic solvents to yield highly uniform PtNPs. This method is valued for precise control over particle morphology.
Platinum ions are reduced electrochemically onto a conductive substrate, allowing for controlled deposition and particle growth — useful for sensor and electrode applications.
Involves the use of plant extracts, bacteria, or fungi as reducing agents, offering an environmentally friendly alternative. These methods are gaining popularity due to their non-toxic nature and low energy requirements.
The chosen method significantly influences the size, crystallinity, and surface properties of the nanoparticles, which in turn affect their applications.
Platinum nanoparticles exhibit distinctive properties that differ from bulk platinum, largely due to their high surface-area-to-volume ratio and quantum size effects.
Key properties include:
The ability to tune size and surface chemistry makes PtNPs highly versatile across various sectors, from catalysis to nanomedicine.
Platinum nanoparticles are at the forefront of advanced material science due to their exceptional catalytic, electronic, and biomedical properties.
This wide array of uses makes platinum nanomaterials a central focus in emerging technologies.
While platinum is relatively inert in bulk form, nanoparticulate platinum introduces new toxicity and environmental concerns.
Ongoing research aims to improve safety profiles and establish standardized toxicity assessments to guide their responsible use.
The future of platinum nanoparticles lies in multifunctional, cost-efficient, and sustainable applications across science and industry.
As demand for clean energy and high-performance materials grows, platinum nanoparticles are expected to play a central role — although challenges in cost and material scarcity must be addressed through recycling and substitution strategies.
Platinum nanoparticles are primarily used in catalysis, fuel cells, biosensors, cancer therapy, and antimicrobial coatings. Their high surface area and reactivity make them valuable in both industrial and biomedical applications.
While generally considered less toxic than other nanoparticles, platinum nanoparticles can pose health risks if inhaled or exposed in high concentrations. Potential effects include oxidative stress and cellular damage, so safety precautions are necessary during handling and manufacturing.
Pt metal nanoparticles are used for:
The price varies significantly depending on purity, particle size, and supplier, but generally ranges from $500 to $2,000 per gram for research-grade material. Bulk pricing for industrial use can be lower, but still reflects platinum’s scarcity and processing complexity.
