Aqua Metals Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results and Highlights Continued Progress Toward Commercialization of AquaRefining™ Technology

Core Insights - Aqua Metals, Inc. has secured $17.1 million in new funding, which will support its strategic partnerships and commercial plans for lithium battery and critical minerals recycling [1][5]. Financial Performance - For the quarter ended September 30, 2025, Aqua Metals raised $4.1 million and an additional $13 million from a leading institutional investor in October, providing significant runway for engineering and permitting efforts [5]. - The company reported a net loss of $3.121 million for Q3 2025, compared to a net loss of $5.210 million in Q3 2024, indicating an improvement in financial performance year-over-year [17]. Market Landscape - The global lithium-battery-recycling sector is experiencing consolidation due to scale and cost challenges faced by early entrants, while demand remains strong with EV sales growing 11% year-over-year [3]. - Market forecasts predict that black mass production in the US will exceed 250,000 metric tons annually by 2030, with an estimated value of critical minerals at $1.2 billion at current prices [4]. Strategic Partnerships - Aqua Metals has signed two MOUs with MOBY Robotics and Impossible Metals to explore clean refining of polymetallic nodules, positioning the company as a potential leader in sustainable processing of deep-sea minerals [5]. - A Letter of Intent was signed with Westwin Elements for the potential supply of 500–1,000 metric tons of recycled nickel carbonate annually, which could represent approximately $12 million in annual contract value [5]. Technological Advancements - The company successfully processed 1 metric ton of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cathode scrap, producing battery-grade lithium carbonate, and remains the only recycler demonstrating an economically viable process for LFP feedstock [5]. - Aqua Metals has modeled a 50/50 NMC-LFP commercial facility that shows profitability at current metals pricing, indicating strong potential for future operations [5]. Compliance and Engagement - Aqua Metals has regained compliance with NASDAQ's minimum-bid requirement, which is crucial for maintaining its listing and investor confidence [5]. - The company participated in The Battery Show North America 2025 and the 2025 Battery Recycling Workshop in China, enhancing its commercial engagement opportunities [5].