Collaborative Advances in U.S. Critical Mineral Refining: Momentum and Aquatech Unite

Revolutionizing Critical Mineral Processing

In a groundbreaking move, Momentum Technologies and Aquatech have announced a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the refining of critical minerals domestically. The collaboration combines Momentum's innovative Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX) technology with Aquatech’s expertise in industrial water technology, creating a robust platform for high-purity battery materials and rare earth elements (REEs).

Key Developments

According to Mahesh Konduru, CEO of Momentum Technologies, this partnership represents a significant step in scaling high-purity refining processes essential for battery materials and REEs. By leveraging the strengths of both companies, the alliance aims to enhance domestic supply chains that are pivotal for various industries, including artificial intelligence, medical devices, power storage, and defense.

Momentum’s patented MSX technology allows for the production of high-purity refined products from various feedstocks like mined materials and battery waste. This positions the company at the forefront of fostering sustainability in the mineral refining sector. Notably, the validation of battery-grade nickel, cobalt, and lithium compounds produced at Momentum's demonstration plant underscores the effectiveness of their technology.

On the other hand, Aquatech’s PEARL™ technology has a significant impact on lithium processing, underlining their impressive capacity of over 100,000 tons per year across more than 2,000 projects globally. Their wealth of experience enhances the credibility and efficiency of the partnership, ensuring a high standard of delivery and cost control for clients.

A Vision for the Future

The integration of these technologies promises to propel innovation in battery recycling and rare earth refining. As highlighted by Ravi Chidambaran, President and CTO of Aquatech, the collaboration not only enhances separation capabilities but also simplifies the supply chain process, leading to a more resilient and self-sufficient ecosystem for American battery materials.

This partnership is timely, given the increasing demand for sustainable technologies in the face of rapidly evolving market dynamics. The U.S. is striving for reduced reliance on imported critical minerals and REEs, and the innovations stemming from this collaboration may very well be the key to achieving that goal.

About Momentum Technologies

Based in Carrollton, Texas, Momentum Technologies is pioneering advancements in the processing of critical minerals through patented technologies developed in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The company specializes in resource recovery and separation, focusing on creating high-purity products at lower operational costs compared to traditional methods.

About Aquatech

With a legacy of over 45 years in addressing complex water and process challenges, Aquatech’s commitment to technology leadership positions it as a key player in the electrification of the global economy. By combining direct minerals extraction with advanced process design, Aquatech offers a comprehensive solution for lithium and critical mineral processing, ensuring efficient and reliable service delivery to resource owners.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Momentum Technologies and Aquatech signifies a monumental shift toward innovative domestic mineral refining, ultimately forging a path for a more secure and sustainable future.