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| Blue Whale Materials lithium ion batteries |
BWM Scales Up Blacksand Production and Facility Capacity
Blue Whale Materials (BWM) expands its Bartlesville, Oklahoma facility to process lithium-ion batteries and production scrap.
As a result, annual processing capacity will increase from 14,000 to 50,000 tons over four years, creating more than 100 permanent jobs.
The company converts end-of-life batteries into Blacksand, a high-grade concentrate containing lithium, cobalt, and nickel.
Meanwhile, Blacksand supports refiners, battery manufacturers, and recyclers in producing new lithium-ion cells efficiently.
DOE funding and private investment enable BWM to add new processing lines, testing centers, and enhanced infrastructure.
Therefore, the company strengthens the circular supply chain for critical battery metals in the U.S., supporting domestic production goals.
Strategic and Community Support Enhances Expansion
BWM receives strong backing from Oklahoma’s federal and state leadership, including the DOE and local officials.
In contrast to many startups, BWM prioritizes safety, handling, and storage of hazardous battery materials with robust mitigation systems.
The expansion allows BWM to develop new product streams, including copper and aluminum concentrates, while exploring lithium and graphite recovery.
As a result, the company positions itself to support EV, AI, aerospace, and energy storage industries with critical minerals.
BWM co-founder David Fauvre emphasizes the need for domestic refining infrastructure to create a true closed-loop battery recycling ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the company aims to reduce U.S. reliance on imported battery metals from East Asia and enhance supply chain resilience.
ScrapInsight Commentary
BWM’s expansion signals strong growth in domestic lithium-ion battery recycling capacity.
The increased production of Blacksand reduces dependence on foreign refining while supporting EV and energy storage supply chains.
Robust infrastructure investment and regulatory support position the company as a key player in the U.S. critical minerals market.
