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| Aqua Metals |
New IP supports global licensing and JV strategy as company pushes to scale AquaRefining technology
Patent Approval Strengthens Aqua Metals’ Expansion in Sustainable LIB Recycling
Aqua Metals Inc., a Reno-based lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycler, has received a notice of allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for Patent Application No. 17/584,975, marking a major step forward for its proprietary AquaRefining™ technology. The patent covers key aspects of the company’s electrified and regenerative hydrometallurgical process that recovers high-purity lithium carbonate, nickel, and cobalt from black mass.
Filed in early 2022, the application reflects extensive R&D, progressing from lab trials to pilot-scale operations. Aqua Metals asserts that its patented process offers $1,100/ton input cost savings compared to conventional hydrometallurgy, while also eliminating sodium sulfate waste, producing negligible CO₂ emissions, and enhancing worker safety.
IP Milestone Enables Licensing and JV Growth
“This allowance represents a major milestone in our strategy to scale AquaRefining through both owned recycling campuses and global partnerships,” said Steve Cotton, President and CEO of Aqua Metals. “It strengthens our IP foundation and positions us to pursue licensing and joint venture opportunities with partners who share our vision of building a clean, secure and domestic battery materials supply chain.”
The patent is expected to play a key role in structuring global deals, with the company actively in discussions with several licensees and JV partners. Aqua Metals is also developing new patent filings, including technology for cost-efficient production of lithium battery precursor materials, and recently added nickel carbonate to its product portfolio.
ScrapInsight Editorial View:
Aqua Metals' patent win comes at a strategic time, as battery material security becomes a top concern for governments and manufacturers alike. Its clean-tech angle—eliminating toxic waste and CO₂—is especially compelling amid tightening environmental regulations. If Aqua can translate this into scalable commercial partnerships, its AquaRefining platform could emerge as a benchmark for closed-loop battery recycling in North America and beyond. All eyes will be on its next move.
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