#United States #Westborough #Ascend Elements #Linh Austin #battery materials

Ascend Elements Welcomes New Leadership

Ascend Elements has recently announced the appointment of Linh Austin as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This change comes as the company is transitioning from being an R&D startup to a full-scale producer of critical battery materials in North America. Linh Austin, who has been part of the Board of Directors since September 2024, brings over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, having held senior roles at major corporations such as McDermott, BP, and ARCO.

Linh's extensive background in industrial operations, product line management, and mergers and acquisitions equips him with the expertise needed to lead Ascend Elements through this pivotal stage. He expressed confidence in the company's future, stating, "We are poised to become Europe and North America's leading commercial-scale manufacturer of domestic, critical battery minerals."

A Commitment to Sustainable Manufacturing

Ascend Elements is recognized for its innovative Hydro-to-Cathode® technology, which allows for the direct synthesis of cathode precursor materials from recycled lithium-ion batteries. This method not only enhances efficiency but also significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional manufacturing processes, positioning the company as a sustainable choice in the energy sector.

With production slated to begin in 2025, the company operates one of North America's largest lithium-ion battery recycling facilities located in Covington, Georgia. This facility has the capability to process up to 30,000 metric tons of used lithium-ion batteries annually and anticipates producing approximately 3,000 metric tons of Lithium Carbonate (Li2CO3) each year.

Future Endeavors: Apex 1 Facility

Adding to its portfolio, Ascend Elements is also in the process of constructing North America's only commercial-scale precursor cathode active material (pCAM) manufacturing facility in Kentucky. Named Apex 1, this facility is projected to begin operations in the third quarter of 2026 and is partially funded by a significant government grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, amounting to $316 million. This investment aligns with national energy policies aimed at boosting domestic production of critical minerals and reinforcing U.S. energy independence.

Founded in 2015 and based in Westborough, Massachusetts, Ascend Elements has rapidly evolved as a leader in providing sustainable battery materials for the growing lithium-ion battery market. Their patented methods and commitment to environmental responsibility place them at the forefront of the industry.

As Linh Austin steps into his leadership role, Ascend Elements is positioned not only for growth but also for making a meaningful impact on the energy landscape. "I’d like to thank our investors for their continued support and the Board of Directors for the opportunity to lead Ascend Elements into its next stage of growth" said Austin, signaling an exciting future for the company.

With a clear vision and advanced strategies in place, Ascend Elements under Linh Austin’s leadership is set to make significant strides in sustainable battery materials and manufacturing processes, ultimately contributing to a greener future.