Core Insights - Metallium Ltd. has entered into a binding Technology Collaboration Agreement with Ucore Rare Metals, aiming to develop a fully compatible feedstock-to-oxide refining pathway for rare earth elements (REEs) in the U.S. [1][2] Company Collaboration - The agreement will integrate Metallium's Flash Joule Heating (FJH) technology with Ucore's RapidSX REE separation technology, creating a streamlined refining process [2][3] - Each company will process feedstocks supplied by the other at their respective facilities in Houston and Louisiana, enhancing operational efficiency [3][4] Technology and Process - Metallium's FJH technology converts diverse feedstocks into high-purity chlorides, significantly simplifying conventional REE metallurgy [3][4] - Ucore's RapidSX technology, supported by an $18.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of War, will facilitate downstream separation into individual rare earth oxides [2][11] Strategic Importance - The collaboration supports U.S. government objectives to establish a secure and independent North American REE supply chain, reducing reliance on China, which currently dominates the global REE market [7][8] - The partnership aims to produce high-purity rare earth outputs critical for defense and commercial applications, positioning both companies at the center of a resilient U.S. supply chain [5][12] Future Developments - Metallium is progressing with collaborations with Meteoric and Rice University, and plans to process e-waste at its Texas demonstration plant in 2026 [4][10] - The companies will also explore the recovery of strategic heavy REE terbium and other valuable elements from waste materials [6]