US Strategic Metals and Ionic Rare Earths Forge Key Partnership for Magnet Recycling in Missouri

Strategic Partnership in Rare Earth Recycling

On November 10, 2025, US Strategic Metals (USSM) made a significant stride in the world of critical minerals by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ionic Rare Earths Limited (IonicRE) at the Australian Embassy in Washington, D.C. This partnership is expected to foster a more resilient supply chain for rare earth elements and promote a sustainable approach to magnet recycling in the United States.

The overarching focus of this collaboration is to establish a vertically integrated system for producing rare earth elements through recycling processes at USSM's designated 1,800-acre site in Missouri. The site, fully permitted for processing, will utilize IonicRE's patented technology aimed at streamlining the recycling of rare earth permanent magnets. This initiative not only signifies the commitment to local production but also aligns with the U.S. government's strategy to reduce reliance on foreign mineral imports, particularly from China.

A Closer Look at the Collaboration

i. Technological Advancements: Under the MOU, both companies are set to harness Ionic Technologies' cutting-edge recycling technology, which is crucial for the efficient production of magnet rare earth oxides (REO). The partnership begins with the development of capacity for recycling Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) and Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo) magnets, which are essential components in many high-tech applications, including renewable energy and electric vehicles.

ii. Strategic Objectives: Along with producing high-purity magnet REOs rapidly within the U.S., the partnership aims to diversify into other heavy rare earth elements, such as Dysprosium (Dy), Terbium (Tb), and others that have recently been classified as restricted by the Chinese government. This drive towards domestic recycling and production is particularly timely given recent geopolitical tensions surrounding supply chains.

Supporting International Cooperation

The MOU also plays into a broader framework established by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese aimed at strengthening supply chains for critical minerals across both nations. This framework emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the U.S. and Australia to achieve a unified approach towards sourcing and processing rare earth elements needed for advanced manufacturing and defense.

In this context, USSM’s CEO, Stacy W. Hastie, remarked on the strategic importance of establishing new supply chains that are responsible and sustainable. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to be at the forefront in creating robust supply chains for critical minerals and heavy rare earths in the U.S.,” he stated.

Future Implications

Looking ahead, IonicRE plans to replicate its success in the U.K. within the U.S. market while expanding its recycling plants across the nation. Tim Harrison, Managing Director of IonicRE, described magnet recycling as the most efficient method to create a robust rare earth supply chain outside of China. With an estimated 70% of U.S. rare earth imports currently sourced from China, the implications of this partnership extend far beyond just business interests; it may very well define U.S. national security, particularly in technological and defense sectors.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Innovation

As the demand for rare earth elements continues to rise globally, the strategic alliance between US Strategic Metals and Ionic Rare Earths highlights a proactive approach to securing a sustainable and independent supply chain. Together, they are not only bringing innovative recycling techniques to the forefront but also championing the vision of a resilient U.S. rare earth production scenario that can positively affect industries and technological advancements in the long run.

This partnership signifies a new era in the critical minerals landscape, paving the way for future innovations necessary for meeting market demands while ensuring environmental responsibility and sustainability in mining, recycling, and production practices.