American Resources Corp (NASDAQ:AREC) said its subsidiaries ReElement Technologies and Electrified Materials have entered a strategic partnership with Blackion LLC to build a vertically integrated, domestic lithium-ion battery recycling supply chain in the US.
The collaboration includes a recycling services agreement between Electrified Materials and Blackion, as well as a memorandum of understanding between ReElement and Blackion.
Under the agreement, Electrified Materials will manage logistics, storage, and disassembly of end-of-life lithium-ion batteries sourced by Blackion’s global network of more than 150 partners. ReElement will refine the recovered black mass into high-purity lithium carbonate using its proprietary and environmentally sustainable technology.
ReElement provides high-performance refining capacity for rare earth and critical battery elements. Its multi-feedstock platform recycles materials from lithium-ion batteries, permanent magnets, ores, and coal-based waste streams, enabling a cost-effective and environmentally responsible circular supply chain.
“This partnership with Blackion is a huge step to bringing real battery recycling solutions in the US to a reality,” said Mark Jensen, CEO of ReElement.
“Our innovative refining technology allows for battery-grade material to stay here in the US to serve both defense and commercial sectors.”
Blackion executive director Douglas Luciano called the alliance a strong match between Blackion’s international sourcing capabilities and ReElement’s refining platform. “Partnering with ReElement and Electrified Materials gives us the technological and operational backbone to recycle at scale and deliver battery-grade lithium to the market cost-effectively and sustainably,” he said.
The companies plan to share net revenues from the sale of refined battery materials. ReElement and Blackion will finalize the terms of the partnership in a binding agreement following the MOU.
The announcement follows a March 2025 executive order by US President Donald Trump urging greater domestic collaboration in battery materials recycling to enhance national security and supply chain resilience.
Based in South Carolina, Blackion provides end-of-life lithium battery management for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Its circular model supports ESG goals by returning critical minerals to the production cycle and reducing the need for virgin resource extraction.