Key points
- ReElement Technologies VP Shane Tragethon describes a chromatographic, resin-column refining process for deep-sea nodules, ores, brines and recycled materials that avoids organic solvents and produces salt as its main byproduct.
- ReElement already refines nickel, cobalt and manganese from nodules and is working on copper; its Noblesville, Indiana facility and the former RCA Thompson plant in Marion, Indiana support that work.
- Tragethon says the modular process can bring a refining facility online in 9 months to a year, versus 10 to 20 years for conventional refineries.
- The company cites a partnership with Novare for a planned $100 million facility likely in South Africa and an offtake agreement with Pensana in Angola.
