Aqua Metals and Impossible Metals Sign MOU to Advance Sustainable U.S. Critical Minerals Supply Chain

Core Insights - Aqua Metals has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Impossible Metals to create a domestic supply chain for critical minerals essential for electrification and clean energy technologies [1][2] - The partnership aims to combine Impossible Metals' seabed mining technology with Aqua Metals' recycling capabilities to produce and refine minerals like nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, and rare earth elements [2][3] - This collaboration is positioned as a step towards enhancing America's critical mineral independence and establishing a sustainable infrastructure for mineral supply [3] Company Overview - Aqua Metals is focused on clean metals recycling and has developed the AquaRefining™ technology, which is a non-polluting process for lithium-ion battery recycling [5] - Impossible Metals specializes in underwater robotics for sustainable mineral collection, with its Eureka Collection System designed to harvest polymetallic nodules while protecting marine ecosystems [4][5] - Both companies share a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, aiming to secure a stable supply chain for critical minerals in the U.S. [3][4] Strategic Goals - The partnership will explore the integration of seabed mining and recycling to create a low-carbon, closed-loop process that minimizes waste and environmental impact [5] - The collaboration is expected to contribute to a more resilient and transparent critical minerals market, reducing dependence on overseas sources, particularly from China [5][6] - Future opportunities may arise to expand the scope of this collaboration, enhancing the stability of the global minerals market [5]