Tidal Metals Teams Up with Alexander Chemical Corporation
In a significant breakthrough for the chemical industry, Tidal Metals announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Alexander Chemical Corporation aimed at revolutionizing chlorine marketing and distribution. This collaboration focuses on leveraging Tidal Metals’ innovative magnesium-from-seawater process, which not only produces essential magnesium but also generates chlorine - a highly valuable co-product of the procedure.
Founded in Hamilton, New Jersey, Tidal Metals boasts a cutting-edge technology that extracts magnesium from the world's largest and most abundant natural resource: seawater. For the past eight years, a trio of PhD co-founders has tirelessly tackled the technical challenges associated with creating an economic, efficient, and scalable magnesium production process within the U.S., a move deemed vital for national security and economic growth.
Currently, over 90% of the primary magnesium metal utilized worldwide is sourced from China, which relies on outdated and environmentally detrimental refining methods. As a result, the United States and Europe find themselves heavily dependent on foreign imports for their primary magnesium needs. Tidal Metals, bolstered by support from deep tech venture capital leader DCVC, has introduced a groundbreaking technology that utilizes only electricity to harvest pure magnesium from both seawater and desalination waste brine. This innovative procedure is designed to be low-cost, scalable, and environmentally sustainable.
“Seawater is home to an essentially infinite supply of magnesium,” stated Dr. Howard Yuh, CEO of Tidal Metals. “Economically extracting magnesium from seawater has presented numerous technical hurdles which our dedicated team has spent years resolving.” Tidal Metals’ method effectively eliminates the need for traditional mining and costly chemical inputs while simultaneously addressing the issue of harmful mining waste.
Magnesium is revered for its lightweight and high-strength qualities, being 75% lighter than steel and 33% lighter than aluminum. Such properties render it an ideal material for various industries, including automotive, robotics, aerospace, and construction. The environmentally friendly and cost-effective production of magnesium is primed to meet increasing demand not just within the U.S. but on a global scale. The successful supply of magnesium is pivotal, especially for sectors relying on high-performance materials.
Notably, Tidal Metals’ innovative process yields nearly three tons of high-purity chlorine for each ton of magnesium harvested. In an $8.5 billion chlorine market, a substantial portion remains reliant on the use of asbestos in manufacturing. The recent reaffirmation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ban on asbestos, slated for complete phase-out over the coming decade, opens the door for fresh sources of domestically produced chlorine. Tidal Metals aims to provide a safe, low-cost, and eco-friendly alternative.
Alexander Chemical Corporation stands at the forefront of chlorine marketing, packaging, and distribution. With this auspicious MOU, the two entities are set to collaborate in bringing Tidal Metals’ high-quality chlorine to market. Robert Davidson, President and CEO of Alexander Chemical, expressed enthusiasm regarding this alliance, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering top-notch chemical solutions while backing sustainable practices.
Dr. Yuh further elaborated, stating that this collaboration marks a crucial step toward realizing the complete potential of Tidal Metals’ groundbreaking magnesium-from-seawater process. Chlorine plays an indispensable role in securing clean drinking water and serves as an integral component across various industries, enhancing the overall safety and quality of life. This partnership aims to not only revitalize domestic magnesium production but also revamp and diversify the chlorine supply chain in the U.S.
As the nation strives to reinstate essential industrial capabilities, including critical minerals and chemicals, the synergy between Tidal Metals and Alexander Chemical epitomizes the fusion of advanced technology and specialized market expertise. This union is poised to set new standards in terms of cost-effectiveness, quality, and environmental conscious practices.
“The secret to succeeding in commodity markets, such as magnesium and chlorine, rests in maintaining sustainable and defensible cost leadership,” noted Earl Jones, the board chair of Tidal Metals. Unlike traditional competitors who often rely on labor, energy, or capital cost advantages, Tidal Metals has consistently focused on superior innovations that lead the market without necessitating government subsidies or support.
In a world where resource scarcity and environmental concerns converge, the Tidal Metals-Alexander Chemical partnership not only addresses immediate market needs but also charts a course for responsible industrial growth. As these two companies embark on this collaborative journey, the goal remains crystal clear: to unlock the immense potential of magnesium and chlorine production from renewable sources, inspiring future breakthroughs in technology and sustainability.
For additional information on Tidal Metals and its pioneering advancements in magnesium extraction, visit
Tidal Metals. For insights into Alexander Chemical Corporation's commitment to safe and innovative chemical solutions, refer to
Alexander Chemical.
This partnership embodies a collective ambition to reshape the future of industrial chemical production, driven by innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience.