US Strategic Metals: Solving the battery supply chain puzzle
The US faces a battery supply chain issue, relying on foreign sources for over 90% of battery raw materials. US Strategic Metals (USSM) aims to address this with a green battery metals platform. Stacy Hastie, CEO, stresses the need for a sustainable, closed-loop battery industry to compete globally. China controls a significant portion of the industry, raising environmental and social concerns. USSM aims to provide a domestic, environmentally friendly solution.
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FAQ for US Strategic Metals
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the battery supply chain puzzle that US Strategic Metals is solving?
Answer: US Strategic Metals is addressing the challenge of securing a reliable supply of critical minerals, such as cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni), which are essential for battery production. Solving this puzzle involves innovating recovery and separation techniques, and developing new and complex supply chains for batteries and their crucial rare earth metals.
2. Why are cobalt and nickel considered critical for battery production?
Answer: Cobalt and nickel are important critical minerals used in the manufacture of battery cells because of their ability to increase energy density, provide thermal stability, and enhance longevity. These properties are essential for high-performance batteries, especially for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
3. What is Innovation News Network's role in the context of US Strategic Metals?
Answer: Innovation News Network is a platform that reports on the latest science, research, and innovation news, including developments by US Strategic Metals in solving the battery materials supply chain puzzle. The network highlights innovative approaches and strategic insights into this industry challenge.
4. How does the US plan to support the battery materials supply chain?
Answer: The US has outlined a National Blueprint for Lithium Batteries 2021-2030 to guide investments in developing a domestic lithium-battery manufacturing value chain. This includes urgent development that creates jobs and sustains the industry while bolstering the domestic supply chain.
5. What are some strategies for cost transformation in supply chains according to Deloitte?
Answer: Deloitte Insights suggest that businesses should focus on strategic cost transformation and operations to innovate and manage new, complex supply chains for critical materials like those required for batteries. This includes enhancing efficiency, reducing dependency on uncertain sources, and investing in technological advancements.
6. Why are lithium prices rising, and what does it mean for the battery supply chain?
Answer: Lithium prices are rising due to increasing demand as it is a key component in battery production. This affects the battery supply chain by adding cost pressures and highlighting the need for strategic approaches to securing stable supplies of lithium and other critical battery materials.
7. What role does collaboration play in securing resilient supply chains for critical minerals?
Answer: Collaboration is crucial for securing resilient supply chains. The United States needs to work with various nations, both bilaterally and multilaterally, to ensure a steady flow of critical minerals. This involves strategic alliances, trade agreements, and international engagements to mitigate supply risks and promote sustainable practices.