MTM Critical Metals Recovers High-Grade Antimony from E-Waste Using FJH Technology

MTM Critical Metals

Breakthrough in Antimony Recovery from E-Waste

Australia’s MTM Critical Metals has successfully recovered high-grade antimony from electronic waste using its proprietary flash joule heating (FJH) technology. Antimony, classified as a “critical mineral” by the US Geological Survey, is widely used in flame retardants, military applications, and lead alloys for batteries and cables. The breakthrough positions MTM to expand its US operations as it evaluates which metals to target for commercial recovery at scale.

The company has already secured a pre-permitted demonstration site in Texas and plans to commission the plant by December 2025, with commercial production starting in 2026. This facility builds on MTM’s prior work in gallium recycling, first announced last year, and reflects the growing demand for advanced recovery solutions to secure critical mineral supplies.

Scaling US Operations with Strategic Partnerships

MTM has secured long-term agreements totaling 1,100 tonnes per year of e-waste feedstock. This includes a five-year deal with Dynamic Lifecycle for 700 tonnes per year of e-scrap. The company is also seeking government funding to support its US expansion.

The proprietary FJH technology, exclusively licensed to MTM’s US subsidiary Flash Metals USA, was originally developed at Rice University in Texas. It rapidly heats material in a controlled chlorine atmosphere, achieving high-purity recovery of target metals. Earlier trials demonstrated strong results in recovering gallium from LED manufacturing scrap, and the company now aims to replicate that success for antimony and other critical minerals.

The Metalnomist Commentary

MTM’s progress underscores how proprietary recovery technologies can reshape critical mineral supply chains. With antimony supplies dominated by China, domestic recovery from e-waste could reduce US import dependency and enhance supply security. If scaled effectively, MTM’s Texas facility could become a strategic hub for recycling high-value metals.