Niobium Alloys for Space and Defense: Taniobis Sees Rising Demand

Taniobis

Niobium alloys for space and defense are entering a pivotal phase. Niobium alloys for space and defense now answer tougher thermal and mechanical requirements. As a result, niobium alloys for space and defense stand out across propulsion and protective systems.

Additive manufacturing unlocks complex niobium components

Taniobis says space and defense programs want materials that endure extreme heat and stress. The firm highlights growing use in reaction control and attitude thrusters.

Meanwhile, additive manufacturing now produces intricate parts directly from digital models. C-103 leads current adoption, with 89pc niobium, 10pc hafnium, and 1pc titanium. Engineers value C-103 for hot-gas exposure and repeated thermal cycling. However, programs still evaluate alternatives for higher temperature margins.

Pricing, alloy choices, and performance trade-offs

Columbite prices support the trend, rising with alloy demand. First-half averages reached $20.13/lb cif main airport. That level sits 31pc above the five-year average of $15.37/lb. Tight supply from central Africa also lifts pricing. Taniobis notes additional niobium options for harsh environments. FS-85 blends 61pc niobium, 28pc tantalum, 10pc tungsten, and 1pc zirconium. Cb-752 combines niobium with tungsten and zirconium. Both alloys suit additive routes and high heat flux zones. They withstand temperatures beyond nickel superalloys, which plateau near 1,050°C. Even so, FS-85 faces weight penalties versus C-103. Therefore, teams hesitate to shift away from a proven workhorse.

Clear use cases continue to expand across space systems. Thermal protection tiles and hot structures benefit from niobium alloys. Propulsion chambers and nozzle throats also gain durability and life. Program managers now balance mass, cost, and printability. They also weigh powder availability and qualification timelines. Taniobis expects more flight hardware as printing scales. Qualification depth will decide the pace of fleet adoption.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Niobium’s high-temperature window aligns with next-gen propulsion and hypersonic needs. Additive manufacturing lowers entry costs and speeds iteration. If columbite supply remains tight, buyers may diversify sources or lock multi-year contracts to manage risk.

Strong Fundamentals to Support Niobium Columbite Prices in 2025

Columbite

The niobium columbite market has witnessed steady price growth over the past two years, driven by rising demand from the aerospace and defense sectors and supply constraints in Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While firm fundamentals are expected to support prices in 2025, further increases may face resistance from smelters shifting to ferro-niobium as a cost-effective alternative.

Aerospace and Defense Demand Driving Niobium Prices

Niobium plays a critical role in high-temperature alloys used in jet engines, hypersonic missiles, and satellite components, making it essential for the aerospace and defense industries.

• Global military spending surged to $2.4 trillion in 2023, a 6.8% increase from 2022, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

• Geopolitical tensions—including Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, escalating conflicts in the Middle East and Red Sea, and China’s increased military drills around Taiwan—have fueled higher defense budgets worldwide, supporting demand for niobium-based alloys.

One of the key niobium alloys, C-103, is composed of 89% niobium, 10% hafnium, and 1% titanium and is crucial in hypersonic missile technology, jet engine afterburners, and space applications. The US Department of Defense recently awarded a $26.4 million grant to Global Advanced Metals under the Defense Production Act program to boost high-purity niobium oxide production at its Pennsylvania plant, further reinforcing long-term demand.

Supply Constraints in Brazil and the DRC Impacting Columbite Prices

While demand-side factors have bolstered niobium prices, supply disruptions have also played a crucial role in the market’s upward trajectory.

• Brazilian niobium columbite supply tightened following President Lula da Silva’s crackdown on illegal mining in the Amazon. Although the primary focus has been on gold and zinc mining, industry participants have reported higher niobium columbite prices and supply disruptions since Lula’s election in 2022.

• Conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has led to reduced tantalite supply, which is a valuable alternative source of niobium for Chinese smelters. With tantalite shortages driving up prices, niobium concentrates have become even more expensive, exacerbating supply concerns.

As a result of these factors, columbite prices averaged $18.20/lb CIF main ports in 2024, significantly higher than the five-year average of $14.50/lb.

Price Outlook and Smelter Substitution Risk

While market fundamentals remain bullish, further niobium columbite price increases may face resistance as smelters consider switching to ferro-niobium to reduce costs. Historically, when columbite prices exceed $18/lb, Chinese smelters have shifted to ferro-niobium, capping price gains beyond that level. This pattern suggests that while prices are likely to remain firm in 2025, further spikes may be short-lived if substitution pressures increase.

Conclusion

With rising global defense spending, growing aerospace applications, and constrained supply from key producers, the niobium columbite market is well-positioned for continued price support in 2025. However, potential price resistance from Chinese smelters switching to ferro-niobium could limit further upside movement. As geopolitical tensions persist and global demand for high-performance alloys rises, niobium remains a critical material to watch in the strategic metals market.

US Ferro-Niobium Purchase From CBMM Strengthens Defense Stockpile Security

Ferro-Niobium

US ferro-niobium purchase plans will strengthen the national defense stockpile through a five-year fixed-price contract with Brazilian producer CBMM’s North American subsidiary. The US Defense Logistics Agency intends to buy vacuum-grade ferro-niobium worth as much as $160mn.

The DLA initially sought up to 1,288,082 lb, or 584.3t, of vacuum-grade ferro-niobium for stockpile use. The material is strategically important because it supports alloy systems used in aerospace, defense and energy applications.

US ferro-niobium purchase plans also highlight America’s dependence on Brazilian niobium supply. Brazil accounted for about 93% of global niobium production in 2025, making CBMM a central supplier in the global value chain.

Vacuum-Grade Ferro-Niobium Supports High-Performance Alloy Applications

Vacuum-grade ferro-niobium is used to produce advanced alloys for demanding industrial and defense environments. These alloys support high-temperature jet engine components, rotor blades and other critical aerospace applications.

The material’s role goes beyond ordinary steel strengthening. In aerospace and defense systems, niobium can improve high-temperature stability, strength and performance in specialized alloy systems.

That makes the DLA purchase strategically significant. Stockpiling vacuum-grade ferro-niobium helps reduce procurement risk for military and aerospace supply chains that depend on reliable access to specialty alloy inputs.

Brazil Remains Central to US Niobium Supply

The US ferro-niobium purchase reflects a highly concentrated supply chain. US customs data show that the country imported 548t of vacuum-grade ferro-niobium in 2025, all from Brazil.

This dependence makes long-term supply arrangements important. A fixed-price contract with CBMM can improve supply visibility and reduce exposure to market disruption, export bottlenecks or geopolitical uncertainty.

For CBMM, the deal reinforces its role as the dominant supplier of niobium products to strategic markets. For the US, it shows that critical mineral security depends not only on domestic mining, but also on trusted foreign suppliers and defense stockpile planning.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The DLA’s ferro-niobium procurement shows how niche alloying elements can become strategic defense materials. For aerospace and military supply chains, secure niobium access is a small-volume issue with high industrial consequence.

US Niobium Defense Stockpile Strengthened by $50mn GAM Contract

Global Advanced Metals

The US niobium defense stockpile is set for a major expansion under a new $50mn supply contract awarded to Global Advanced Metals (GAM). The five-year, fixed-price agreement with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) covers up to 380,360lbs of niobium ingots for delivery to the Scotia Depot in New York. This move reinforces the US niobium defense stockpile at a time when Washington is accelerating efforts to secure critical minerals for advanced defense systems, aerospace components and high-performance alloys.

US niobium defense stockpile anchored by domestic production

The contract will see GAM produce niobium ingots at its Boyertown, Pennsylvania facility, anchoring the US niobium defense stockpile in domestic processing capability. This onshore production reduces exposure to geopolitical risk and supply disruptions from foreign sources. It also supports traceable, defense-grade quality standards important for superalloys, jet engines and advanced electronics.

In parallel, GAM has deepened its relationship with the US government through multiple awards. The company previously secured a $26.4mn award to produce niobium oxide and a separate five-year, fixed-price tantalum ingot contract worth up to $100mn. Together, these awards embed GAM at the core of US supply chains for niobium and tantalum, both on the US critical minerals list. As a result, the US niobium defense stockpile is increasingly backed by integrated tantalum and niobium capabilities within a single strategic supplier.

Critical minerals stockpile strategy widens beyond niobium

The DLA’s latest award fits into a broader push to expand US strategic reserves across a basket of critical minerals. Recent tenders and information requests have targeted antimony, cobalt, bismuth, high purity aluminum and scandium flake. This diversified approach recognises that modern defense platforms rely on complex material systems, not single metals. It also signals that niobium will sit alongside other critical inputs in a coordinated national stockpile strategy.

However, building a resilient US niobium defense stockpile will require long-term policy consistency and sustained funding beyond the current contract horizon. Fixed-price deals can stabilise budgeting but may compress margins if raw material costs rise. At the same time, capacity must scale in line with future demand from hypersonics, next-generation aircraft and power electronics. The latest GAM contract therefore looks like an important step, but not the final word, in US niobium security planning.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The GAM award underscores how quickly niobium has moved from a niche alloying element to a strategic pillar in US defense planning. By pairing niobium and tantalum contracts with broader stockpile tenders, Washington is quietly constructing a multi-metal buffer against future supply shocks. The next test will be whether parallel investments in mining, recycling and alloy R&D can keep pace with the Pentagon’s rising appetite for advanced materials.

Leclanché Introduces Niobium-Based Battery Cells for Industrial and Heavy-Duty EV Applications

Leclanché

Swiss energy storage company Leclanché is set to launch a new battery cell solution that leverages XNO, a niobium-based anode material developed by UK-based Echion Technologies. The XN50 battery cell will replace Leclanché’s current lithium titanium oxide (LTO) offering, with a focus on heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs), rail, and marine applications.

The XN50 promises significant advancements over LTO cells, delivering 50% higher energy density and the ability to fast charge in under 10 minutes. Moreover, the niobium-based cells offer enhanced safety and performance, particularly in extreme weather conditions. These new cells will be available alongside Leclanché's existing nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, which use graphite anodes. Leclanché has been producing LTO cells since 2012 and introduced NMC batteries in 2019.

Niobium’s Growing Role in Battery Technology

Niobium, traditionally used in steel alloys and defense applications, is now becoming a key material in battery and fuel cell technologies due to its high energy density. Echion’s XNO materials, developed from mixed niobium oxide compounds and microparticle designs, are sourced from Brazilian niobium producer CBMM. The XN50 is the first battery cell to incorporate XNO on a commercial scale, offering manufacturers a cutting-edge solution for industrial and mass transportation use. Additionally, Echion has signed a deal with Taiwanese battery manufacturer GUS Technology to supply XNO for heavy-duty EV battery production.

As demand for niobium-based anode materials continues to rise, Echion plans to open a 2,000 t/yr XNO manufacturing facility this year to supply major cell manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The versatility of niobium extends beyond batteries, with Canadian project developer NioBay Metals currently exploring niobium-titanium alloys for hydrogen fuel cells, presenting new market opportunities for niobium and titanium.

Elmet and Taniobis Partner to Strengthen North American Niobium and Tantalum Alloy Supply

Elmet Niobium

Strategic Alliance to Bolster Aerospace and Defense Supply Chains

Elmet Technologies and Taniobis have entered a long-term partnership to enhance North American supply lines of niobium- and tantalum-based alloys essential to aerospace and defense industries. The collaboration will initially focus on producing and marketing C-103 and FS-85 alloys, primarily in powder form, with potential expansion into Taniobis’ AMtrinsic product line.

The deal provides US-based Elmet with an opportunity to broaden its product portfolio beyond molybdenum and tungsten, leveraging its manufacturing capabilities, including an extrusion press in Coldwater, Michigan. Germany-based Taniobis gains access to Elmet’s North American distribution network and technical expertise, ensuring faster delivery and greater production flexibility for regional customers.

Alloy Applications and Market Potential

C-103, composed of 89% niobium, 10% hafnium, and 1% titanium, is highly valued for maintaining strength at extreme temperatures. It is widely used in hypersonic missile components, rocket nozzles, and jet engine afterburners. FS-85, consisting of 61% niobium, 28% tantalum, 10% tungsten, and 1% zirconium, offers similar mechanical performance at a lower cost by omitting hafnium.

However, FS-85 adoption faces hurdles due to its heavier weight and aerospace customers’ preference for proven materials. Elmet highlights FS-85’s higher ultimate tensile strength compared to C-103, positioning it as a potential alternative in cost-sensitive applications.

Outlook for Advanced Alloy Supply Security

The partnership underscores the importance of diversifying alloy supply sources in North America amid rising geopolitical pressures on critical minerals. Niobium and tantalum are both considered strategic materials due to their scarcity, high performance, and reliance on limited global production sources.

With aerospace and defense demand expected to rise, the Elmet–Taniobis alliance could play a pivotal role in mitigating supply chain risks and advancing domestic manufacturing capabilities for high-performance alloys.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This partnership aligns with broader efforts to secure critical mineral supply chains for strategic industries. If FS-85 gains traction, it could reshape alloy procurement strategies in aerospace and defense, offering a cost-effective alternative to established high-performance materials.

NioCorp Traxys Offtake Agreement Secures Elk Creek Critical Minerals Output

NioCorp Traxys

NioCorp Traxys offtake agreement has moved the Elk Creek project closer to commercial validation by covering the remaining planned production from the Nebraska critical minerals development. The non-binding agreement would give Traxys North America access to NioCorp’s remaining output during the project’s first 10 years of operations.

The agreement also includes a potential strategic investment of up to $30mn by Traxys in NioCorp. This would make Traxys a shareholder while supporting sales of critical minerals between large manufacturers and producers.

NioCorp Traxys offtake agreement is strategically important because Elk Creek is designed to produce ferro-niobium, scandium oxide, titanium products and rare earth materials. These materials are tied to aerospace, defense, automotive, energy, advanced alloys and high-performance manufacturing supply chains.

Elk Creek Output Gains Full Commercial Coverage

NioCorp has now commercially covered 100% of its planned production. The company plans to sell 50% of its ferro-niobium output to Thyssenkrupp at a discount to the SuperMetalPrice assessment and the remaining 50% to Traxys.

Traxys would also take 100% of NioCorp’s scandium, titanium and rare earth production for the first 10 years. This gives the project a clearer route to market across multiple strategic materials rather than relying on one product stream.

The offtake coverage addresses one of the key remaining due diligence items in the Export-Import Bank review of NioCorp’s proposed $800mn debt financing package. For critical minerals projects, financing confidence often depends on credible buyers, long-term offtake and realistic commercial channels.

Ferro-Niobium, Scandium and Rare Earths Add Strategic Value

NioCorp plans to produce 7,450 t/yr of ferro-niobium, 104 t/yr of scandium oxide and 12,063 t/yr of titanium products. Ferro-niobium is important for high-strength steels and specialty alloys, while scandium can improve aluminium alloy performance in aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

The Elk Creek resource also contains rare earth potential, including neodymium-praseodymium oxide, dysprosium oxide and terbium oxide. These materials are critical for high-performance permanent magnets used in electric motors, defense systems, robotics, wind turbines and industrial automation.

NioCorp Traxys offtake agreement therefore links a US-based mineral project with a global trading platform capable of connecting output to strategic customers. That could strengthen the US critical minerals supply chain if Elk Creek moves through financing and into construction.

The Metalnomist Commentary

NioCorp’s agreement with Traxys shows that critical minerals projects need market architecture as much as geology. Elk Creek’s real value lies in combining niobium, scandium, titanium and rare earths into a financeable US supply-chain platform.

Materion AI Demand Lifts Sales as Defence Orders Strengthen

Materion

Materion AI demand helped drive a sharp rise in first-quarter sales as electronics, defence and semiconductor customers increased orders for advanced materials. The US-based producer reported net sales of $549.8mn, up 30.8% from a year earlier.

Materion AI demand was most visible in the company’s electronic materials segment, where sales rose strongly on higher demand from chipmaking applications. Adjusted Ebitda increased by 8.6% to $52.9mn, showing that revenue growth translated into stronger earnings despite mixed performance across business units.

Materion AI demand also reflects a broader industrial trend. Artificial intelligence is increasing demand for logic chips, memory devices, thin-film materials, high-purity chemicals and precision components used across the semiconductor supply chain.

The company’s order backlog rose by more than 20% year on year at the end of the quarter. Defence orders exceeded $60mn, while open requests for quotations surpassed $300mn, indicating continued momentum in aerospace and defence materials.

AI Chips Lift Electronic Materials Sales

Materion’s electronic materials segment delivered the strongest growth in the quarter. Net sales rose to $363.3mn from $224.8mn a year earlier.

The segment produces tantalum sputtering targets for thin-film vapour deposition. These targets are used in semiconductor manufacturing, especially in logic and memory chip production.

Tantalum is important because it supports thin, reliable and high-performance films inside advanced chips. As AI workloads grow, semiconductor manufacturers need more materials that support higher computing power, better efficiency and tighter device architectures.

Materion also produces advanced chemicals and semiconductor materials. These products place the company deeper inside the AI hardware supply chain, where material purity, consistency and qualification are critical.

The sales increase shows that AI is not only driving demand for finished chips or data centre hardware. It is also increasing demand for upstream specialty materials that enable chip fabrication.

This is significant for minor metals and advanced materials suppliers. AI growth is pulling more value toward high-purity inputs, sputtering targets, deposition materials, precision optics and performance alloys.

Defence Backlog Supports Performance Materials Recovery

Materion’s aerospace and defence order rates increased by 50% over the past 12 months. Energy order rates rose by more than 20%, while semiconductor order rates increased by 10%.

The defence order book is especially important. More than $60mn of defence orders in one quarter, combined with over $300mn in open quotation requests, gives Materion stronger visibility into future demand.

Materion’s performance-materials segment had a weaker first quarter. Net sales fell to $155.7mn from $174mn a year earlier, mainly because of lower precision-clad material sales.

However, the company expects performance-material sales to improve from the second quarter. Aerospace and defence demand should support the recovery.

The segment includes beryllium products and alloys, along with niobium, tantalum and nickel alloys. These materials serve demanding applications where strength, conductivity, thermal stability, corrosion resistance or weight reduction are essential.

Materion had suspended clad-strip production in the fourth quarter of 2025 because of material quality problems. Production resumed as expected in January-March and returned to pre-issue levels.

Precision optics also strengthened. Sales rose by 43% to $30.8mn, with demand improving across life sciences, consumer electronics, automotive, aerospace and defence, and semiconductors.

The result shows that Materion is exposed to several high-value growth channels at once. AI supports electronics materials, defence supports performance alloys, and precision optics benefits from advanced manufacturing and semiconductor demand.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Materion’s quarter shows how AI and defence demand are pulling specialty materials deeper into strategic supply chains. The key signal is not just higher sales, but the growing importance of tantalum, beryllium, niobium, nickel alloys and precision optics in advanced manufacturing.

NioCorp Public Stock Offering Targets Funding for Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project

NioCorp

NioCorp public stock offering plans could raise up to $100mn to advance the Elk Creek critical minerals project in Nebraska. The financing would support one of the most strategically relevant US mineral development projects because Elk Creek targets niobium, scandium, titanium, and potentially magnetic rare earth elements.

The company is offering up to 20mn common shares at $5/share. The offering is expected to close on or around 25 February, subject to customary conditions. If completed, the NioCorp public stock offering would strengthen the company’s balance sheet as it moves the Nebraska project through its next development phase.

Elk Creek is important because the US remains heavily dependent on foreign supply for several specialty materials used in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, defence, energy systems, and high-performance alloys. A domestic source of niobium and scandium would carry strategic value beyond normal mine economics.

Elk Creek Could Support Domestic Niobium and Scandium Supply

The Elk Creek critical minerals project is expected to produce niobium, scandium, and titanium. These materials serve different industrial markets, but all carry strategic relevance for the US manufacturing base.

Niobium is mainly used to strengthen steel and improve performance in high-strength low-alloy applications. Scandium can improve aluminium alloy performance, especially where lightweight Titaniumstrength and weldability matter. Titanium has strong relevance in aerospace, defence, medical, chemical processing, and high-corrosion environments.

NioCorp is also evaluating the potential to produce magnetic rare earth elements. That could increase the project’s strategic value if it proves commercially viable, because rare earth magnets are essential for motors, defence systems, robotics, wind power, and advanced electronics.

Financing Highlights US Critical Minerals Capital Challenge

The NioCorp public stock offering shows how critical minerals projects still depend on patient capital before they can become supply-chain assets. Policy support and strategic demand are important, but mines still need funding for engineering, permitting, construction planning, and commercial development.

The proposed $100mn raise would help advance Elk Creek at a time when the US is trying to reduce dependence on imported critical materials. However, specialty mineral projects face a difficult financing environment because their markets can be smaller, less transparent, and more technically complex than bulk commodities.

For US industry, the key issue is whether projects such as Elk Creek can move from strategic potential to actual production. If NioCorp succeeds, the project could add an important domestic source of niobium, scandium, titanium, and possibly rare earth materials to the North American supply chain.

The Metalnomist Commentary

NioCorp’s offering highlights a central problem in critical minerals policy: strategic materials need commercial capital before they can become strategic supply. Elk Creek’s value will depend not only on geology, but also on financing execution, downstream qualification, and reliable offtake demand.

Domestic Imports of Noble Alloys Fell in 2Q

Shipments of noble alloys to the United States declined in the second quarter, reflecting weaker demand from domestic steel producers and a narrower U.S. premium compared to the previous year.

- According to U.S. Commerce Department data released this week, total imports of noble alloys, including ferro-molybdenum, ferro-niobium, ferro-titanium, ferro-vanadium, and ferro-tungsten, fell by 14% to 6,352 metric tons.

- Shipments of ferro-molybdenum from Chile, the primary global supplier, dropped by 19% to 1,887 tons, while imports of South Korea-sourced alloys plunged by 34% to 683 tons.

- Ferro-niobium imports from Canada decreased by 11% to 1,009 tons but were largely offset by a 13% increase in shipments from Brazil, totaling 1,194 tons.

- Consolidated ferro-titanium imports from Eastern Europe—comprising Estonia, Latvia, and Ukraine—plummeted by 71% to 123 tons, while U.K. shipments fell by 36% to 267 tons.

- U.S. imports of ferro-vanadium from Austria sank by 61% to 133 tons, though Canadian imports rose by 40% to 402 tons.

- South Korea shipped only 1 ton of ferro-tungsten to the U.S. from April to June, with no imports from regular suppliers Vietnam and Mexico.

High-temperature metals and nickel rally reshape global superalloy cost structure

High-temperature metals

Surging demand and constrained supply mean the high-temperature metals and nickel rally is fundamentally reshaping superalloy cost structures. Aircraft engine and industrial gas turbine manufacturers are ordering at record levels just as key refractory metals move sharply higher. As a result, the high-temperature metals and nickel rally is squeezing melters that sit between volatile raw material markets and long-dated OEM contracts.

Rhenium-led cost shock hits second-generation superalloys

Rhenium has become the epicentre of the high-temperature metals and nickel rally despite representing only a small share of alloy weight. Intrinsic values for benchmark single-crystal alloys such as Rene N5 and CMSX-4 have jumped by more than 80pc in a year. This surge reflects rhenium’s critical role in creep strength and fatigue resistance in high-pressure turbine blades. However, rhenium remains a by-product of molybdenum from copper operations, which severely limits flexible supply. Other key elements such as tantalum and hafnium have also rallied, yet their relative contribution to alloy cost is still overshadowed by rhenium in second-generation chemistries.

Producers now face a difficult trade-off between performance and affordability as the high-temperature metals and nickel rally reopens the debate over alloy design. Second-generation alloys with roughly 3pc rhenium, including Rene N5 and CMSX-4, remain the market workhorses because they balance durability with cost. Meanwhile, third-generation alloys with higher rhenium contents remain less widely adopted, as OEMs hesitate to qualify materials whose economics depend on extreme minor-metal prices.

Tight turbine capacity, nickel rally and scrap strategy

Industrial gas turbine demand is amplifying the impact of the high-temperature metals and nickel rally on alloy buyers. MAR-M 247, a key alloy for IGT blisk castings, has seen calculated costs climb alongside hafnium and other minor metals. Lead times for major OEMs such as GE Vernova, Siemens Energy and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries reportedly stretch to around seven years. Commercial aircraft backlogs exceed a decade of production, leaving melt shops reluctant to miss their place in already strained queues.

Nickel’s rally adds a second layer of inflation even in lower rhenium or rhenium-free alloys. Benchmark nickel prices have jumped around 25pc since mid-December, supported by investor flows and policy risk premiums despite an oversupplied refined market. Nickel-based alloys only account for roughly 6pc of nickel demand, yet the price spike is clearly visible in less temperature-critical grades such as Inconel 718. Intrinsic values for Inconel 718 have risen on the back of nickel and niobium, lifting input costs for rings, casings and sheet parts across aerospace and energy applications.

To defend margins, melters are pushing scrap-based strategies as far as OEM specifications allow. High revert utilisation, sometimes up to 70pc of a melt, can partially shield producers from spot price volatility in primary metals. However, strict quality standards often restrict the use of externally sourced scrap, with some OEMs mandating internal revert only. Many melt shops therefore work “hand-to-mouth”, hesitant to lock in long-term tonnages at record prices while suppliers worry about replacing committed units in tightening markets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The high-temperature metals and nickel rally is exposing how concentrated and opaque minor-metal supply chains remain, particularly for rhenium and tungsten. For investors and OEMs, the key strategic levers will be higher scrap utilisation, deeper recycling partnerships and more flexible alloy qualification pathways. Those who move fastest on revert, substitution and long-term offtakes will be best placed to secure turbine-grade material through the next decade of aerospace and power-generation growth.

NioCorp Elk Creek project secures fresh funding for critical minerals push

NioCorp

The NioCorp Elk Creek project is moving closer to construction after the company outlined plans to raise an additional $60mn. The NioCorp Elk Creek project, located in Nebraska, targets production of scandium, niobium, titanium and other critical minerals needed for advanced manufacturing. This latest funding move comes just a week after NioCorp closed a $50mn share offering, underscoring growing investor confidence in the NioCorp Elk Creek project and its strategic role in North America’s supply chain.

Equity raise underpins NioCorp Elk Creek project construction

NioCorp will issue about 9.8mn new shares at $6.15 per share through a placement arranged by US investment bank Maxim Group. The proceeds will help launch construction of the NioCorp Elk Creek project and support its transition toward commercial-scale production. In addition, the funding will cover general working capital needs as the company advances engineering, procurement and early site works. By leaning on equity rather than pure debt, NioCorp reduces balance sheet pressure at an early stage of the NioCorp Elk Creek project, which can be important in volatile critical minerals markets.

Strategic backing highlights importance of critical minerals

Beyond equity markets, the NioCorp Elk Creek project has attracted support from government-backed financiers. The project has secured up to $10mn in funding from the US Department of Defense, reflecting the strategic importance of scandium, niobium and titanium for aerospace, defense and high-performance alloys. It has also lined up $200mn from UK Export Finance, signalling international interest in diversifying critical mineral supply chains. As a result, the NioCorp Elk Creek project is emerging as a potential pillar in efforts to reduce dependence on overseas sources for high-spec material used in lightweight alloys, clean energy technologies and advanced infrastructure.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The funding pipeline around Elk Creek shows how quickly capital can mobilise when critical minerals, defense needs and supply chain security align. The next test will be NioCorp’s ability to execute on time and on budget in a sector where cost inflation and project delays remain common. If delivered, Elk Creek could become a benchmark for integrated scandium, niobium and titanium supply in North America.

NioCorp Critical Minerals Project Secures $200 Million UK Financing

NioCorp

NioCorp critical minerals development received a major boost with up to $200 million in potential financing from UK Export Finance (UKEF). The NioCorp critical minerals project at Elk Creek in Nebraska will produce niobium, scandium, and titanium, addressing critical supply chain gaps as no US companies currently produce niobium or scandium domestically.

Strategic Partnership Advances US Critical Minerals Security

NioCorp critical minerals financing demonstrates international cooperation in securing essential materials for advanced manufacturing. UKEF expressed non-binding interest for the loan this week, contingent upon offtake agreements with UK companies for the project's output. The company has already engaged in discussions for scandium-based product agreements with potential British partners.

Meanwhile, the financing structure involves coordination with the US Export-Import Bank, creating a bilateral framework for critical minerals development. This partnership model reflects growing recognition that critical minerals supply chains require international collaboration to reduce dependence on single-source suppliers, particularly China.

Diverse Product Portfolio Targets High-Value Applications

However, the Elk Creek project addresses multiple critical mineral supply gaps across strategic industries. Niobium serves high-strength low-alloy steel production for automotive and structural applications, while scandium enhances aluminum alloys for aerospace manufacturing. Titanium finds applications in aerospace, defense, medical devices, and industrial pigments.

Therefore, NioCorp's integrated approach maximizes project economics by targeting multiple high-value end markets. The company also plans to extract rare earth elements from end-of-life rare earth magnets at the facility, creating additional revenue streams while supporting circular economy principles in critical minerals recovery.

Project Significance for Domestic Supply Chain Resilience

Furthermore, the Elk Creek facility addresses a critical vulnerability in US manufacturing supply chains. Currently, no American companies produce niobium or scandium domestically, creating dependencies on foreign suppliers for materials essential to aerospace, automotive, and defense industries. The project's development aligns with US government priorities for critical minerals supply chain security.

As a result, the UK financing arrangement demonstrates how allied nations can collaborate to strengthen collective supply chain resilience. The offtake requirement ensures British companies gain access to reliable critical minerals supplies while supporting American domestic production capabilities in strategically important materials.

The Metalnomist Commentary

NioCorp's potential $200 million UK financing arrangement exemplifies the evolving geopolitics of critical minerals development, where traditional export credit agencies support strategic resource projects beyond their borders. This bilateral approach to financing critical minerals infrastructure represents a pragmatic model for Western nations seeking to diversify supply chains away from Chinese dominance while creating mutually beneficial commercial relationships.

US scandium oxide national stockpile move signals rising critical mineral urgency

US Defense Logistics Agency

The US scandium oxide national stockpile decision marks a major shift in Washington’s critical mineral strategy. The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) has added scandium oxide to the National Defense Stockpile and is now seeking multi-year supply contracts. This move embeds the US scandium oxide national stockpile firmly within defense planning for semiconductors, electronics and advanced alloys.

Rio Tinto anchors US scandium oxide national stockpile supply

Rio Tinto currently stands as the only North American supplier able to meet the US scandium oxide national stockpile requirements. The company produces high-purity scandium oxide from titanium dioxide waste streams at its RTIT Quebec Operations in Sorel-Tracy, Canada. As a result, the DLA’s request for information found Rio Tinto alone could commit scalable scandium oxide supply.

The agency issued a May RFI on scandium metal and received responses from four companies. However, only Rio Tinto confirmed both capability and availability to supply scandium oxide into the National Defense Stockpile. This underscores how fragile current supply chains are for a material vital to next-generation electronics and aerospace alloys.

Scandium joins wider US critical minerals stockpile push

The scandium oxide tender sits within a broader push to harden US critical mineral supply chains. In early September, the DLA issued tenders and RFIs covering cobalt, bismuth, high-purity aluminum, scandium flake, niobium and ferro-niobium. Together, these moves align the US scandium oxide national stockpile effort with a multi-metal resilience agenda.

Rio Tinto first produced commercial-scale high-purity scandium oxide at Sorel-Tracy in 2022. That milestone made it North America’s only scandium oxide producer and a natural anchor for DNS procurement. Going forward, the DLA’s “indefinite quantity” contracts over five years could help underwrite new capacity, but they also highlight concentrated supplier risk.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Bringing scandium oxide formally into the US National Defense Stockpile confirms its elevation from niche alloying element to strategic asset. The reliance on a single qualified North American producer underscores both progress and vulnerability in the current supply chain. Expect US policymakers to encourage additional scandium by-product and standalone projects if demand from defense and semiconductors continues to rise.

NioCorp Elk Creek critical minerals funding widens US Sc-Nb-Ti supply

Elk Creek Project

DoD backs Elk Creek with $10mn milestone award

NioCorp Elk Creek critical minerals funding advances with a DoD award of up to $10mn. The funding supports scandium production at Elk Creek, Nebraska. The grant falls under Defense Production Act Title III with performance milestones. Therefore, NioCorp Elk Creek critical minerals funding strengthens US materials resilience. The project targets scandium, niobium, and titanium outputs for strategic supply chains.

Financing stack positions project for construction readiness

The company adds export credit support to the plan. NioCorp expects up to $200mn from UK Export Finance. It is also pursuing up to $800mn from US EXIM. As a result, NioCorp Elk Creek critical minerals funding now blends grants and debt. This stack could accelerate long-lead procurement and engineering. It also improves bankability for a polymetallic flow sheet.

The project targets multiple high-value markets. Scandium enhances aluminum alloys for aerospace and defense platforms. Niobium strengthens HSLA steel used in autos and infrastructure. Titanium adds corrosion resistance for energy and industrial uses. Meanwhile, domestic production can reduce import exposure and lead times. Offtake talks could unlock additional financing flexibility.

Execution risks remain despite policy support. The DoD award requires milestone delivery. Market prices for scandium and niobium can be thin and volatile. However, diversified revenue across Sc-Nb-Ti can help smooth cycles. Permitting, EPC readiness, and grid interconnects also matter. Robust ESG practices will aid lender diligence and OEM adoption.

The Metalnomist Commentary

US re-shoring needs scalable inputs beyond copper and lithium. Elk Creek’s blended financing suggests a maturing toolkit for niche critical minerals. Watch for binding offtakes and EPC notices; those will signal true project momentum.

US Antimony DLA contract strengthens US strategic antimony supply

US Antimony

US Antimony DLA contract marks a major step in rebuilding North America’s antimony supply chain and defense resilience. The five-year, fixed-price US Antimony DLA contract is worth up to $245mn and targets nearly 6.7mn lbs of metal. As a result, the US Antimony DLA contract positions the company as the core domestic supplier for this critical mineral.

DLA moves to secure domestic antimony for the stockpile

The US Defense Logistics Agency awarded US Antimony a contract to supply ingots for the National Defense Stockpile. Deliveries will go to the Scotia Depot in New York, with first shipments expected this week under the multi-year framework. The tender directly cited US Antimony as the only source of qualifying domestic-grade material, underscoring its unique position.

US Antimony operates the only two antimony smelters in North America, in Montana and at Madero in Mexico. The Madero smelter reopened in April, restoring additional regional capacity for processed antimony products. Together, these assets give the company integrated upstream and midstream control from ore to ingot.

Antimony’s role in defense and critical minerals strategy

Antimony is a core ingredient in many strategic and military applications, especially for alloys and flame retardants. It is used in batteries, cables and specialized defense components, making secure supply a national priority. Therefore, the contract fits into Washington’s broader push to rebuild domestic and allied capacity for critical minerals.

The DLA has expanded its National Defense Stockpile purchases across several critical minerals this year. Recent tenders and RFIs have targeted cobalt, bismuth, high-purity aluminum, scandium flake, niobium and ferro-niobium. This portfolio approach aims to reduce dependence on unstable or adversarial foreign sources.

Market implications for antimony and strategic metals

The US Antimony DLA contract sends a strong demand signal to antimony markets and potential investors. Long-term, fixed-price offtake can support capital spending, operational stability and potential future expansions. Meanwhile, the contract highlights the value of having permitted, operating smelter capacity in politically stable jurisdictions.

Global antimony supply remains concentrated, with China still dominating mine output and processing. As a result, Western buyers increasingly seek diversified supply chains, including North American and allied producers. US Antimony’s position as the only North American smelter operator makes it a central part of this shift.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This deal effectively transforms US Antimony from a niche smelter into a strategic asset for US defense planners. For the broader critical minerals sector, it signals that long-dated government offtake contracts may become a key financing tool for non-Chinese supply.

IperionX Expands Forging Capacity to Meet Growing Titanium Demand

IperionX

US Titanium Producer Advances Production Capabilities and Technology for Enhanced Efficiency

IperionX, a leading US titanium producer, is significantly expanding its forging capacity to meet the rising demand for high-quality, near-net-shape titanium products. The company has recently commissioned a new 100-metric ton uniaxial hydraulic press and is set to acquire additional critical equipment in late 2024 to further boost production.

These expansions follow IperionX's breakthrough in enhancing its titanium angular powder production process. This innovation aims to increase output beyond its current capacity of 125 metric tonnes per year, with expectations for further growth by late 2025. As a result, the company is positioning itself for greater market demand, particularly from industries seeking specialized titanium products.

IperionX's Hydrogen-Based Technology Brings Efficiency Gains

One of the key factors driving IperionX's expansion is its proprietary hydrogen sintering and phase transformation (HSPT) technology. This cutting-edge process allows the company to produce products with "forged-like" quality while maintaining lower costs compared to traditional ingot-to-forging manufacturing methods. The company's approach offers an efficient, innovative solution to meet the needs of various industries, including aerospace and defense.

IperionX has already started ramping up its pressing and sintering capabilities in 2025, ensuring faster product commercialization. Additionally, the company has significantly increased its prototyping and validation efforts to keep up with growing demand and to fine-tune its production processes.

Looking to the Future: Machining and New Alloys

IperionX is also exploring opportunities to expand its offerings further down the value chain. The company has received increasing interest from industrial and defense sectors for products such as titanium fasteners. As a result, IperionX is evaluating the addition of machining capabilities to better serve these markets.

Additionally, the company is reconfiguring its pilot plant in Salt Lake City, Utah, to focus on producing new titanium alloys, including those incorporating zirconium, tantalum, and niobium. This move reflects IperionX’s commitment to diversifying its product range and strengthening its competitive position in the titanium market.

In conclusion, IperionX is setting the stage for a significant increase in production capacity and product innovation. With its advanced technologies and strategic expansions, the company is poised to meet the surging demand for titanium products in the coming years.

China Expands Copper and Aluminium Duty Exemptions for 2025

Recycled Copper

In a bid to promote sustainable growth, China has announced expanded import duty exemptions on recycled copper and aluminium feedstocks for 2025. This change is part of the country’s broader strategy to bolster green and low-carbon development in its metal industries. The move reflects China’s ongoing efforts to ease restrictions on secondary copper and aluminium imports, which could have significant implications for both domestic and international markets.

Expansion of Duty Exemptions

Under the new policy, China will expand the HS code 74040000 to include “recycled copper and alloy feedstock” for 2025, up from just "recycled brass copper feedstock" and "recycled copper feedstock" in 2024. Similarly, the HS code 76020000 will also broaden to cover “recycled aluminium and alloy feedstock” from the previous scope of "recycled cast aluminum alloy feedstock" in 2024. The import duties for both categories will remain at zero for 2025, continuing the exemptions in place for 2024.

This expansion is intended to enhance the country’s circular economy and support the shift toward greener practices in the recycling and processing of metals. According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, the adjustments will help promote low-carbon development, driving demand for sustainable production methods.

The move follows an increase in China’s copper scrap imports, which saw a 14% rise from January to November in 2024 compared to the previous year, signaling a positive trend for the country's metal recycling sector.

Continued Duties on Other Base Metals

While China is easing import duties on certain recycled metals, the government has decided to keep export duties on various base metals, minor metals, ferro-alloys, and rare earths in place for 2025. This includes maintaining the 40% export duty on ferro-chrome, a 25% duty on silico-manganese and ferro-silicon, and a 20% export duty on ferro-manganese. These duties align with China’s broader objective of controlling the export of energy-intensive and pollution-heavy products.

The country will also continue with export duties on a variety of concentrates, such as lead, zinc, tantalum, and niobium, as well as a 20% duty on tin, tungsten, and antimony concentrates, which are less frequently exported due to China’s limited domestic resources of these metals. Additionally, China will maintain duties on several metals, including a 5-15% export duty on copper, nickel, and zinc alloys and products.

China's new policy also includes a zero import duty on spodumene for 2025, marking another significant move in its strategic approach to securing key raw materials for its growing battery and electronics industries.

US adds scandium oxide to National Defense Stockpile

Scandium Oxide

The US adds scandium oxide to National Defense Stockpile to bolster supply security. The DLA opened bids for multi-year supply. This US adds scandium oxide to National Defense Stockpile step targets semiconductors and advanced electronics.

Procurement details and supplier landscape

The DLA will award fixed-price delivery orders over five years. It seeks an indefinite quantity of scandium oxide. The agency identified Rio Tinto as a North American source. Rio Tinto produces high-purity scandium oxide at Sorel-Tracy, Canada. Only Rio Tinto signaled immediate capability in DLA’s RFI.

Implications for critical minerals and semiconductors

Scandium strengthens aluminum alloys and supports power electronics. Therefore, the decision supports defense and industrial resilience. The DLA also issued RFIs for cobalt, bismuth, high-purity aluminum, niobium, and ferro-niobium. It requested information on scandium metal and scandium flake as well. Rio Tinto began commercial-scale output in May 2022.

The market sees clearer demand signals from US stockpiling. Meanwhile, suppliers can plan capacity and logistics accordingly. Consequently, the US adds scandium oxide to National Defense Stockpile milestone may crowd-in private investment.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Adding scandium oxide to the DNS formalizes a persistent gap in US materials policy. Watch awarded volumes, delivery cadence, and any parallel alloy programs. Together, these will determine whether procurement translates into durable industrial capacity.

UAE and Brazil Forge Strategic Minerals Partnership, Targeting Energy Transition Metals

IRENA

Significant Investment Aims to Bolster Brazil's Position in Global Metals Market

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Brazil have announced a landmark partnership focused on the exploration and development of Brazil's burgeoning metals industry, with a strong emphasis on strategic minerals crucial for the global energy transition. This collaboration, formalized between Brazil's Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) and the UAE's Ministry of Investment, envisions investments of up to R$15 billion ($2.4 billion) across research, processing, trading, technology, and professional training.

This strategic alliance was cemented during the International Renewable Energy Agency's (IRENA) meeting held in Abu Dhabi on January 11-12. Brazil's return to IRENA, after a period of absence during the previous administration, underscores its renewed commitment to sustainable energy policies. The partnership aligns with IRENA's recognition of Brazil as a key player in the global energy transition.

Brazil's Rich Mineral Reserves Attract Global Attention

Brazil's abundant mineral resources are a primary driver of this partnership. The nation boasts the world's largest reserves and production of niobium, a critical element used in advanced alloys and superconducting technologies. Additionally, Brazil holds significant reserves of natural graphite, nickel, and rare earth elements, placing it among the top global producers. Furthermore, Brazil holds significant positions in lithium and silicon production. This partnership will provide a boost to companies currently operating within Brazil, and also attract new investment.

The recent announcement by Brazil's BNDES development bank to invest R$5 billion in strategic metals projects further highlights the nation's commitment to developing its mineral wealth. These investments are designed to enhance Brazil's capacity to meet the growing global demand for metals essential for renewable energy technologies and other high-tech applications.

Focus on Sustainable Development and Technological Advancement

A core component of the partnership will be the focus on sustainable development practices and technological advancements in the metals industry. This includes investments in research and development to improve processing techniques, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the overall sustainability of mining operations. Professional training programs will also be a key aspect, ensuring that Brazil has a skilled workforce to support the growth of its metals sector. The partnership between the UAE and Brazil is poised to reshape the landscape of the global strategic minerals market.