In a significant move for its growth trajectory,
Momentum Technologies has appointed
Ben Gilliams as
Executive Partner, focusing on Technology, Operations, and Strategy. This strategic decision reflects the company's commitment to scaling its commercial critical minerals platform as it embarks on an exciting phase of operational expansion.
Ben Gilliams is expected to spearhead key initiatives that encompass technological advancements, operational improvements, and strategic commercialization efforts at Momentum. Previously with notable companies like Nyrstar and Redwood Materials, Gilliams brings nearly three decades of invaluable experience in the metals, mining, and battery materials sectors, making him an ideal candidate to guide Momentum through this critical juncture.
Momentum's flagship operation in
Carrollton, Texas, has successfully refined approximately
300 tons per year of
Rare Earth Elements (REE) from recycled hard-disk-drive sources under a partnership with a hyperscale technology client. As the company prepares for its second commercial-scale plant, with a target capacity of up to
1,000 tons annually, Gilliams will leverage his extensive expertise to ensure smooth operations and facilitate the ongoing development of the facility.
CEO
Mahesh Konduru expressed enthusiasm about Gilliams’ expanded role, highlighting his long-standing contribution and the strategic depth required as Momentum gears up for the new plant's operational launch. "Ben will be instrumental in building a sustainable platform to support our commercial growth," said Konduru.
Gilliams previously served as
Vice President of Operations at Nyrstar and was also a key player at Redwood Materials, coordinating strategic projects and enhancing operational efficiency. His track record includes over a decade of leadership experience at Umicore, where he mastered operations across various international settings, reinforcing his capability to handle complex challenges in the critical minerals industry.
In his own words, Gilliams remarked, "Momentum is at a pivotal point, with unparalleled opportunities for growth and replication of our successful technology platform. I'm thrilled to extend my role and collaborate with our team as we aim to scale our operations."
Under Gilliams' leadership, Momentum's commercial operations have already achieved remarkable milestones, processing over
7,000 tons of REE and battery-materials feedstock, with claims of
99.9% purity for Yttrium and
99.5% purity for NdPr Oxide. The ongoing developments at Momentum signal a promising future as they prepare to further solidify their presence in the field of critical minerals, showcasing their innovative
Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX) technology designed to extract high-purity elements from both primary and secondary feedstocks.
As the landscape of critical minerals continues to evolve amid increasing demand for sustainable technologies, Momentum Technologies stands poised to lead significant advancements within the sector. With Gilliams at the helm of Technology and Strategy, the company looks forward to scaling its operations while contributing meaningfully to the global push for sustainable mineral sourcing.
About Momentum Technologies
Momentum Technologies, headquartered in Carrollton, Texas, is revolutionizing critical minerals processing by developing innovative technologies in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Their pioneering MSX technology effectively separates high-purity Rare Earth Elements while reducing costs compared to traditional methods. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, Momentum aims to expand its processing capabilities and fill the growing need for critical minerals in high-tech applications. For more details, visit
momentum.technology.