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| Black mass recycling |
Cobalt Blue Advances Black Mass Testing at Broken Hill Technology Centre
Cobalt Blue will use its Broken Hill Technology Centre (BHTC) to test black mass recycling. This initiative aims to supply cobalt feedstock for the Kwinana refinery by 2026. Meanwhile, black mass bench tests will optimize production of cobalt metal, nickel hydroxide, and manganese sulphate.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Supply Plans
Cobalt Blue signed a non-binding letter of intent with Hartree for cobalt metal from black mass. The company plans offtake agreements with buyers in Japan, France, and the US. Glencore will supply 50% of Kwinana’s feedstock during the initial three years.
Market Context and Pricing Implications
Interest in black mass recycling follows the Democratic Republic of Congo lifting a cobalt export ban. DRC supplies 76% of global cobalt feedstock, and the ban caused Argus’ 30% grade cobalt hydroxide price to increase 2.5-fold. Therefore, recycled materials may stabilize future cobalt prices.
ScrapInsight Commentary
Cobalt Blue’s black mass initiative reflects a shift toward recycled feedstocks amid volatile DRC cobalt supply. This strategy may mitigate price spikes and strengthen circular economy practices in battery metals. The refinery’s production alignment with international buyers signals growing investor confidence.
