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Titan Mining Announces Strong Kilbourne Graphite Project Economics and Expanded U.S EXIM Support to Accelerate U.S. Graphite Independence
Globenewswire· 2025-12-01 11:00
Core Insights - Titan Mining Corporation is positioned to supply up to 50% of U.S. natural graphite demand, supported by federal backing under EXIM's "Make More in America" initiative [1][6] - The Kilbourne Graphite Project has demonstrated robust economics with an after-tax NPV(7%) of $513 million, a 37% IRR, and a payback period of 2.7 years [2][4] - The project is expected to create approximately 160 permanent jobs, contributing to local economic benefits in St. Lawrence County and New York State [9] Economic Highlights - The Kilbourne Project Study indicates a pre-tax NPV of $581 million and an after-tax NPV of $513 million [10] - The project has a pre-tax IRR of 38.9% and an after-tax IRR of 37.0% [10] - Initial capital expenditure is estimated at $156 million, with a life of mine OPEX of $886 million [10][12] Production and Resource Details - The Kilbourne Project hosts an inferred mineral resource of 22.4 million tons grading 2.91% Cg, with significant exploration upside as only 30% of the known strike length has been drilled [7][18] - Average production is projected at approximately 40,000 metric tonnes per annum of graphite concentrate, which aligns with nearly 50% of current U.S. demand [4][7] - The project will utilize a flotation-based concentrator, achieving 95% Cg at approximately 90% recovery [7] Government Support and Financing - EXIM has approved an additional $5.5 million of non-dilutive funding to accelerate feasibility work at Kilbourne [2][4] - A non-binding Letter of Interest for up to $120 million of project financing has been issued by EXIM, expected to cover the majority of construction capital [2][4] Strategic Importance - The Kilbourne Project is positioned as a cornerstone of U.S. graphite supply, enhancing domestic supply chains for strategic minerals essential to national security [6][9] - Titan's operations are expected to support U.S. defense and semiconductor supply chains through the development of a multi-metal critical materials complex [4][6]
Titan Mining to Begin NYSE American Trading November 20 as “TII”
Globenewswire· 2025-11-17 11:00
Core Viewpoint - Titan Mining Corporation has achieved a significant milestone by getting its common shares approved for listing on the NYSE American, which reflects the company's momentum and its role in strengthening America's critical minerals supply chain [1][2]. Company Overview - Titan Mining Corporation is a zinc concentrate producer located in upstate New York and is also emerging as a natural flake graphite producer, which is essential in the rare earths and critical minerals ecosystem [1][4]. - The company operates the Empire State Mine, which is 100% owned and produces zinc concentrate, while also targeting to be the first end-to-end producer of natural flake graphite in the USA in 70 years [4]. Listing Details - Trading on NYSE American is expected to commence on or about November 20, 2025, under the ticker symbol "TII," while the shares will cease to be quoted on the OTCQB Venture Market [2]. - Current shareholders do not need to take any action, but those holding shares through OTCQB brokers should monitor their accounts for updates to the new ticker symbol [3]. Strategic Importance - The listing on NYSE American is expected to broaden Titan's access to global capital markets and enhance its visibility as it develops its graphite project [2]. - Graphite is classified as an essential critical mineral by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of War, with the U.S. currently importing 100% of its natural graphite, 42% of which comes from China [2]. Future Growth Potential - Titan's federally supported U.S. graphite platform is anticipated to deliver transformative, long-term growth, positioning the company uniquely in the market [2][5].
Focus Graphite Receives Conditional Funding of up to $14.1M to Advance Canada's First Electrothermal Fluidized Purification Demonstration Plant
Newsfile· 2025-11-03 14:57
Core Insights - Focus Graphite has received conditional funding of up to $14.1 million from Natural Resources Canada to support the establishment of Canada's first electrothermal fluidized bed purification demonstration facility, aimed at producing ultra-high-purity graphite for various markets [2][3][4] Funding and Project Overview - The funding, announced at the G7 Energy and Environment Ministers' Meeting, is part of the Global Partnerships Initiative and is pending final due diligence [2][3] - The project will utilize Quebec-sourced graphite from Focus's Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca deposits, which are among North America's highest-grade natural graphite resources, to produce graphite with purity levels exceeding 99.95% carbon [4][21] Environmental and Technological Aspects - The electrothermal fluidized bed technology is designed to produce ultra-high purity graphite with zero liquid waste and lower emissions, aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards [3][20] - The project aims to establish a scalable and chemical-free purification process, enhancing Canada's critical mineral processing capacity [20][21] International Collaboration - The project involves collaboration with Ukrainian and American partners, including the Thermal & Material Engineering Center and American Energy Technologies Company, to leverage their expertise in engineering and purification technologies [3][5][8] - Focus Graphite has also partnered with the University of Texas at Dallas's BEACONS Battery Prototyping Facility to validate and commercialize the purified graphite for defense and advanced battery applications [7][14] Path to Commercialization - The initiative is expected to create skilled jobs and support regional economic development while establishing a domestic purification capability for Canadian-sourced graphite [21][22] - Focus Graphite plans to produce qualification samples for G7 and NATO-aligned partners, addressing the upstream bottleneck in establishing large-scale purification capacity in Canada [22][23] Future Prospects - The electrothermal platform may eventually be adapted for rare earth element purification, potentially opening new avenues for clean processing of strategic materials [23] - The project aligns with Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign-controlled materials and enhance energy security [21][22]
Aqua Metals and MOBY Robotics Sign MOU Establishing Collaboration Framework for Sustainable Refining of Deep-Sea Critical Minerals
Globenewswire· 2025-11-03 13:00
Core Insights - Aqua Metals, Inc. has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with MOBY Robotics Inc. to lead in sustainable refining of deep-sea polymetallic nodules, aiming to enhance domestic solutions for critical mineral independence [1][5][7] Collaboration Details - The MOU focuses on evaluating the technical and commercial feasibility of producing battery-grade materials from polymetallic deep-sea nodules, with bench-scale testing planned for later this year [2][3] - The collaboration will also explore the extraction and refining of rare earth elements (REEs) from the nodules, which would expand Aqua Metals' role in the domestic supply chain for batteries and advanced manufacturing [3][4] Strategic Importance - This initiative marks Aqua Metals' second MOU related to deep-sea minerals, extending its AquaRefining™ process beyond lithium-ion battery recycling to new sources of critical minerals [4] - The collaboration is seen as a significant opportunity to strengthen the U.S. supply of critical minerals, particularly as international demand for nickel, cobalt, and manganese increases [5][6] Market Position - Aqua Metals is positioned as a first mover in sustainable refining and battery metals recycling, with initiatives expected to enhance its standing in the multi-billion-dollar critical minerals market [7]
Ramaco backs US critical minerals stockpile at Brook Mine
Yahoo Finance· 2025-10-28 11:42
Core Insights - Ramaco Resources has initiated a project to establish the US' first national stockpile of rare earth elements (REEs) and critical minerals at its Brook Mine facility in Wyoming [1][2] - The strategic critical minerals terminal (SCMT) will enable Ramaco to become a fully integrated producer of critical minerals and REEs, covering all operational stages [2][3] Project Overview - The SCMT aims to provide secure access to REE and critical minerals for both private and public sectors, addressing national needs [2] - The initiative will utilize Ramaco's mineral resources alongside external expertise for extraction, processing, and inventory management, reducing supply chain risks [3] Operational Details - Ramaco plans to process its own materials and offer tolling services for third-party producers, enhancing the domestic supply chain [4] - The terminal will manage inventory to ensure safety and market price availability, with the Brook Mine having direct access to transportation infrastructure [4] Financial and Production Goals - The project is expected to generate stable cash flows and serve as a national infrastructure asset [5] - Ramaco aims to increase annual rare earth and critical mineral oxide production to approximately 3,400 tonnes, reflecting a 174% increase [6] Resource Potential - The Brook Mine spans over 15,800 acres, with 4,500 acres permitted, and is a primary source of scandium, gallium, germanium, and heavy and light REEs [5] - An estimated 1.4 million tonnes of total rare earth oxide (TREO) has been confirmed, with potential for further increases through exploration [6][7]
Ramaco Resources Announces Strategic Initiative to Establish First National Critical Minerals Stockpile at Brook Mine
Prnewswire· 2025-10-27 12:00
Core Insights - Ramaco Resources, Inc. has announced the establishment of a national strategic stockpile of rare earth elements and critical minerals at its Brook Mine facility in Wyoming, known as the Strategic Critical Minerals Terminal (SCMT) [1][2][3] Company Initiatives - The SCMT aims to position Ramaco as a vertically integrated producer of critical minerals and rare earth elements in the U.S. [2] - The stockpile will address both private and public needs for secure access to essential materials, leveraging Ramaco's resources and third-party expertise [3][4] - The initiative is expected to provide long-term solutions for extraction, processing, and inventory management, thereby mitigating supply chain risks [3][4] Strategic Advantages - The Brook Mine site offers strategic advantages due to its location and infrastructure, including direct connectivity to the BNSF railroad and proximity to a major interstate highway [5] - This connectivity is anticipated to facilitate efficient transportation and distribution to a wide range of customers, including defense contractors [5] Production Goals - Ramaco plans to increase its annual commercial rare earth and critical mineral oxide production from approximately 1,240 tons to 3,400 tons, representing a 174% increase [10] - The Brook Mine is believed to contain significant quantities of heavy and light rare earth elements, essential for various advanced applications [9][11] Resource Estimates - The latest Technical Report Summary estimates 1.4 million tons of Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) at the permitted acreage, with potential for expansion as further exploration occurs [11] - The Brook Mine is recognized as one of the world's primary sources for scandium, gallium, and germanium, which are critical for advanced technologies [9][11] Future Development - Ramaco is committed to strengthening the U.S. critical minerals supply chain and supporting national security through this initiative [11][12] - The company is also expanding its land holdings in Wyoming for future development and mineral storage potential [8]
Focus Graphite Appoints Jean-Francois Perrault as Strategic Advisor
Newsfile· 2025-10-15 09:00
Core Insights - Focus Graphite Inc. has appointed Mr. Jean-Francois Perrault as Strategic Advisor to provide strategic and financial guidance for its Lac Knife and Lac Tetepisca graphite projects [1][5][11] - Mr. Perrault has over 30 years of experience in capital markets and investment banking, currently serving as Managing Partner at Pavilion Capital Advisers [2][3] - The company aims to leverage Mr. Perrault's extensive network and experience to advance its financing and development efforts, particularly in the context of North America's push to reduce reliance on China for critical minerals [5][11] Company Overview - Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc. owns two 100% owned graphite projects, with Lac Knife being one of the most advanced high-purity graphite deposits in North America [6][7] - The Lac Tetepisca project is positioned to be one of the largest and highest-purity graphite deposits in North America, enhancing the company's portfolio [7] - The company is committed to environmentally sustainable processing solutions and innovative battery technologies, including a patent-pending silicon-enhanced spheroidized graphite [7][8] Strategic Goals - Focus Graphite is focused on securing a resilient, locally sourced supply of critical minerals to reduce dependence on foreign-controlled markets [8] - The company is actively collaborating with industry leaders, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation graphite materials [8] - The appointment of Mr. Perrault is part of the company's strategy to strengthen its leadership team and enhance its capital markets profile as it advances toward mine permitting and development [5][11]
Former National Security & Intelligence Advisor Jody Thomas Nominated to Electra Board of Directors
Globenewswire· 2025-09-23 11:00
Core Insights - Electra Battery Materials Corporation has nominated Jody Thomas to its Board of Directors, enhancing its leadership team with expertise in national security and defense [1][2][4] - Ms. Thomas's extensive background in public service and risk management is expected to support Electra's strategic priorities in developing a secure supply chain for critical minerals in North America [2][3] - The nomination of Ms. Thomas follows other recent appointments aimed at strengthening the Board's strategic depth and operational expertise [4] Company Strategy - Electra is focused on establishing North America's only cobalt sulfate refinery and aims to onshore critical minerals refining to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains [5] - The company's strategy includes nickel refining and battery recycling, with growth projects such as integrating black mass recycling and exploring cobalt and nickel production opportunities in North America [5]
Electra Announces Terms of US$30 Million Brokered Private Placement for Completion of Refinery Construction
Globenewswire· 2025-09-12 13:17
Core Viewpoint - Electra Battery Materials Corporation is undertaking a US$30 million financing as part of its financial restructuring to support the commissioning of North America's first battery-grade cobalt sulfate refinery in Ontario [1][3]. Financing Details - The company has engaged Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation and ECM Capital Advisors Ltd. as co-lead agents for a private placement offering, aiming to sell a minimum of 40,000,000 units at US$0.75 per unit, totaling at least US$30 million [2]. - Each unit consists of one common share and one warrant, allowing the purchase of an additional common share at US$1.25 for a period of 36 months post-offering [4]. - The offering is backed by a US$10 million conditional commitment from lenders, with existing shareholders given the opportunity to participate on the same terms as new investors [5]. Use of Proceeds - Net proceeds from the offering will be allocated to the completion and ramp-up of the cobalt refinery, the black mass recycling program, repayment of US$2 million in promissory notes, restructuring expenses, and general working capital [6]. - If gross proceeds exceed US$34.5 million, excess funds will be used to repurchase senior secured convertible notes from lenders [6]. Timeline and Conditions - The offering is expected to close around October 15, 2025, subject to shareholder approval and other regulatory conditions [7]. - A special meeting for shareholder approval is anticipated on or around October 9, 2025 [7]. Agent Compensation - The company will pay agents a cash commission of 6% of gross proceeds and issue non-transferable broker warrants equal to 6% of units sold, with reduced commissions for certain units sold under the lender commitment [8]. Regulatory Compliance - The units are offered on a private placement basis in Canada and outside Canada, adhering to specific securities regulations [9][10]. - Common shares from the sale of units under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a hold period, while other securities will have a statutory hold period of four months and one day [11]. Company Overview - Electra Battery Materials is focused on advancing North America's critical minerals supply chain for lithium-ion batteries, with plans for cobalt sulfate refining, nickel refining, and battery recycling [13].
Electra Signs Term Sheet with Ontario for C$17.5 Million as Part of C$100 Million Cobalt Refinery Investment
Globenewswire· 2025-09-12 13:15
Core Points - Electra Battery Materials Corporation has signed a term sheet for C$17.5 million in funding from Invest Ontario to support the construction of its cobalt sulfate refinery in Temiskaming Shores, which will be the first facility in North America dedicated to producing battery-grade cobalt sulfate [1][2] - The refinery is expected to produce 6,500 tonnes of battery-grade cobalt sulfate annually, sufficient to support the production of up to 1 million electric vehicles per year, thereby reducing reliance on foreign-controlled supply chains [2][3] - The total estimated investment for the refinery construction is C$100 million, with the new funding replacing a previously announced US$20 million strategic corporate investment [4] Company Developments - The refinery will create over 50 new jobs and is expected to deliver long-term economic benefits, reinforcing Ontario's leadership in electric vehicle battery manufacturing [3] - Electra is also planning to produce other battery materials and has commenced a feasibility study for a battery recycling refinery adjacent to the cobalt refinery [5] - The company is targeting a ~60% reduction in convertible debt and a US$30 million equity raise as part of its financing plan [4] Industry Context - The project supports Ontario's clean energy transition and aims to establish a domestic supply of battery-grade cobalt, which is critical for energy security and the global energy transition [2][3] - With over 90% of the global cobalt sulfate supply currently coming from China, Electra aims to be one of the few producers without ties to Foreign Entities of Concern, thereby enhancing the resiliency of the North American supply chain [2][5]