IperionX titanium powder expansion reshapes US titanium supply

IperionX

IperionX titanium powder expansion marks a major step in US titanium reindustrialisation. The company will invest $75mn to lift powder output sevenfold at its Virginia plant. As a result, IperionX titanium powder expansion supports domestic aerospace, defence and additive manufacturing supply chains.

Capacity, technology and cost reduction

The expansion will raise annual powder capacity from 200t to 1,400t by mid 2027. IperionX will add more HAMR furnaces while maintaining spherical powder capacity at 15t per year. Meanwhile, optimisation work has already lifted modular HAMR nameplate capacity by 60pc to 200t per year. These process gains cut unit operating costs by 27pc to $55 per kilogram today. Therefore the company targets $29 per kilogram once the IperionX titanium powder expansion is complete.

Downstream titanium parts and US supply chain impact

IperionX will grow downstream manufacturing alongside the IperionX titanium powder expansion in Virginia. The company targets near net shape production of titanium fasteners, brackets and other structural components. It will also produce mill products, including titanium plate, sheet and bar, for industrial customers. In addition, IperionX plans additive manufactured components using laser and electron beam powder bed fusion. As a result, the project strengthens US titanium value chains from powder through finished parts.

The Metalnomist Commentary

IperionX’s investment highlights how advanced process technology can reset titanium’s cost curve in North America. For aerospace and defence buyers, US based powder and parts capacity reduces reliance on imported sponge and mill products. However, execution on cost targets, quality standards and downstream qualifications will determine how quickly the market adopts this capacity.

Metalysis aluminium-scandium alloy powder enters commercial production in the UK

Metalysis

Metalysis aluminium-scandium alloy powder has reached commercial production in the UK. The move expands non-Chinese supply for a niche but strategic alloy. Meanwhile, Metalysis aluminium-scandium alloy powder targets faster deliveries for chip, defence, and aerospace customers.

Metalysis runs four Gen 2 units after doubling its operating base. Each unit produces up to 350kg per year of aluminium-scandium alloy powder. Therefore, the company positions itself for a meaningful share of a small market.

Gen 3 scale-up targets tonne output in a tight AlSc market

Metalysis plans tonne-scale output from Gen 3 units in the coming months. Nitesh Shah says the ramp will follow Gen 2 stabilisation and learning. As a result, aluminium-scandium alloy powder production could move from kilograms to tonnes faster.

Analysts estimate the aluminium-scandium market at only 3–4 tonnes per year. That tight ceiling makes reliability more valuable than headline capacity. However, even small expansions can reshape availability for high-purity powder buyers.

Export controls and semiconductor demand raise the value of Western supply

China’s export controls have pushed buyers to diversify the scandium supply chain. Metalysis aluminium-scandium alloy powder directly addresses that sourcing risk for midstream users. Meanwhile, customers increasingly prioritise traceable inputs for sensitive applications.

Chipmakers use aluminium-scandium sputtering targets in thin-film vapour deposition. They deposit aluminium-scandium nitride coatings for advanced semiconductor components. Therefore, stable AlSc alloy powder supply supports both yield control and procurement planning.

Defence and aerospace customers also dilute the powder with aluminium to make lightweight, high-strength alloys. That pathway links scandium availability to platform modernisation and airframe efficiency. However, the market will still demand strict quality control and consistent particle specifications.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Metalysis has entered a strategically important bottleneck, not a bulk metals market. Export controls will keep rewarding qualified non-Chinese suppliers with proven delivery. The next signal will come from Gen 3 qualification with semiconductor-grade customers.

Rare earth polishing powder plant: Shenghe expands high-performance capacity in Sichuan

Shenghe

A new rare earth polishing powder plant is moving forward in Leshan, Sichuan. Leshan Shenghe is building the rare earth polishing powder plant to capture fast-rising optical glass demand. As a result, the project targets higher-value rare earth processing, not just raw materials.

The company plans 15,000 t/yr of high-performance rare earth polishing powder in the first phase. It will invest 468mn yuan ($67.01mn) to complete construction and commissioning by December 2026. Meanwhile, the plant will focus on cerium-containing polishing powder used in precision finishing.

Optical glass demand drives a push into higher-value rare earth products

Optical glass growth is pulling more high-consistency polishing materials into supply chains. Semiconductor tools and panel displays also raise quality requirements for polishing powders. Therefore, producers now compete on particle control, purity, and process know-how.

Global polishing powder consumption stands near 60,000 t/yr today. China accounts for about 50,000 t/yr, or roughly 83pc of the total. However, Japan, South Korea, and the US still lead high-performance grades and core technology.

Phase-two feedstock strategy supports import substitution and stability

Shenghe designed a second phase to secure inputs for the first phase. The plan adds 30,000 t/yr of rare earth carbonate capacity after the first phase starts. Therefore, the second phase aims to stabilize feedstocks and improve cost control.

The company expects to finish second-phase construction by June 2028. It also says the rare earth polishing powder plant can reduce reliance on imported high-end material. Meanwhile, the project signals a broader shift toward specialized rare earth downstream products.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This buildout shows China is targeting the “technology layer” of rare earth value chains. However, equipment qualification and customer validation will decide real pricing power. The leaders will lock in repeatable quality, not just nameplate tonnage.

IperionX Targets Mid-2025 Expansion for Titanium Powder Production

IperionX

Focus Keyphrase: IperionX titanium powder expansion

IperionX titanium powder expansion is now expected to occur earlier than planned, with output capacity set to rise by mid-2025. The US-based company has accelerated its guidance due to improvements in its modular HAMR furnace process.

In January, IperionX projected increased output later in 2025. However, operational efficiency and technology upgrades have moved the timeline forward. Though the firm didn’t disclose exact numbers, capacity will rise above the current 125 metric tonnes per year.

Downstream Manufacturing Systems and Aerospace Demand Fuel Growth

The company also launched its first-phase downstream manufacturing systems in Q1, enabling production of semi-finished and near-net-shape parts. It validated its hydrogen sintering and phase transformation (HSPT) process and installed a cold-isostatic press for titanium tubes and rods.

IperionX is collaborating with eight partners on pilot production and qualification programs. Customer interest expanded to aerospace firms, indicating strong market potential for its advanced titanium materials.

Focus on Efficiency and Scrap Reduction in Titanium Products

Initial production will prioritize titanium parts with traditionally high scrap rates and low material yield. Target applications include fasteners, luxury electronics housings, and premium enclosures, areas with high value-added demand.

The company plans to announce its full growth strategy by mid-2025, aligned with its IperionX titanium powder expansion roadmap. This includes optimization across product types, refining capabilities, and scaling supply for strategic sectors.

The Metalnomist Commentary

IperionX’s early expansion highlights a shift in titanium manufacturing toward efficiency and localized supply. Its traction with aerospace clients signals growing demand for precision titanium parts in high-performance applications.

PyroGenesis Gains Second Aerospace Order for Titanium Powder

PyroGenesis

Montreal-based PyroGenesis Canada, known for its advanced plasma processes, has secured a second order for titanium metal powder from a Spanish aerospace client for use in additive manufacturing. The client, who specializes in advanced aeronautics technologies for the European aerospace industry, had previously placed an order in April. This repeat order may lead to a long-term contract with PyroGenesis.

After terminating its distribution agreement with French alloy producer Aubert & Duval, PyroGenesis is now directly selling its metal powders to European customers. The company is also negotiating with other European clients interested in its titanium powder for additive manufacturing.

Earlier this month, a global aerospace original equipment manufacturer notified PyroGenesis that its Ti-6Al-4V titanium-vanadium alloy coarse powder has been approved for its supplier list. The powder, with a size range of 45-150µm, is typically used in additive manufacturing applications such as electron beam melting and direct energy deposition.

IperionX Titanium Expansion: $47mn Raise to Scale US Titanium Powder

IperionX Titanium

IperionX titanium expansion accelerates with a planned $47mn capital raise. The IperionX titanium expansion targets angular titanium powder output of 2,000 t/yr by end-2026. This IperionX titanium expansion also strengthens domestic titanium supply chains for aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing.

Capacity scale-up and product roadmap

IperionX will push phase-one operations beyond its 125 t/yr modular furnace nameplate. The company plans to build out forging capabilities to offer semi-finished and near-net-shape parts. Potential customers completed inspection and pre-qualification visits to its Virginia campus.

Financing structure and timeline

Funding will come via a private placement executed in two tranches. The first tranche is expected to close “on or about” Tuesday. The second tranche, for directors, remains subject to shareholder approval.

IperionX aims to expand angular titanium powder supply for additive manufacturing. Meanwhile, the company will diversify into forgings to widen its product portfolio. These steps support resilient US supply chains amid rising titanium demand.

The plan includes scaling to 2,000 t/yr of titanium powder by 2026. Therefore, IperionX positions itself as a key US titanium feedstock source. The company will leverage its modular furnace technology to lift throughput efficiently.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This raise is sized for industrial proof, not mega-capex. Execution hinges on furnace debottlenecking, qualification wins, and forging ramp economics. Watch for multi-year offtakes with aerospace tier-ones to validate the capacity target.

RTX First-Quarter Sales Rise Despite GTF Engine Delivery Pressure

RTX

RTX first-quarter sales increased year on year despite lower commercial engine deliveries at Pratt & Whitney, showing the strength of aerospace aftermarket and defence demand. The US aerospace group reported sales of $22.1bn in January-March, up 9% from a year earlier.

RTX first-quarter sales were supported by stable commercial original equipment demand, strong aftermarket activity and higher defence demand. The company’s three major businesses — Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney and Raytheon — all sit inside supply chains tied to aircraft production, engine maintenance and military systems.

RTX first-quarter sales also benefited from a record backlog of $271bn. This included $162bn in commercial contracts and $109bn in defence contracts, with Raytheon supported by higher bookings for Patriot guidance-enhanced missiles.

The result highlights a split inside the aerospace market. Aircraft and defence demand remain strong, but engine delivery constraints continue to slow the pace at which some commercial aircraft programmes can convert orderbooks into production.

Pratt & Whitney Engine Deliveries Remain a Key Airbus Constraint

Pratt & Whitney reported a 1% decline in commercial original equipment sales because of lower engine deliveries. The company produces the PW1100G geared turbofan engine for Airbus’ A320neo family, one of the world’s most important narrowbody aircraft programmes.

The shortfall matters because Airbus depends on engine supply to meet its build-rate targets. Pratt & Whitney has struggled to deliver enough engines, and Airbus has already had to adjust its production trajectory because of engine availability.

RTX said the challenge reflects the need to balance new aircraft demand with the health of the existing GTF fleet. The current engine variant has faced durability issues, creating pressure on both newbuild supply and aftermarket support.

The GTF fleet management plan remains central to Pratt & Whitney’s operating outlook. In 2023, RTX identified a rare condition in powder metal used to manufacture high-pressure turbine disks and high-pressure compressor disks. The issue requires accelerated inspections across the PW1100G-JM fleet.

This creates a complex supply-chain problem. Pratt & Whitney must supply engines for new aircraft while also managing inspections, repairs and parts availability for the installed fleet.

The result is an engine bottleneck that affects more than RTX. Airbus, airlines, leasing companies, MRO providers, forging suppliers, powder metal producers and high-temperature alloy producers all feel the impact.

Aftermarket Strength and MRO Investment Support Longer-Term Recovery

Aftermarket demand helped offset lower engine deliveries. RTX’s first-quarter performance shows that commercial aerospace earnings are increasingly supported by maintenance, repair and overhaul activity as global fleets remain active and engine shop visits rise.

Pratt & Whitney’s MRO output for the PW1100 increased by 23% from a year earlier. First-quarter shop visits were in line with the expected full-year run rate of about 800.

This aftermarket strength is strategically important. Engine problems can reduce new OE sales, but they also create higher demand for inspections, replacement parts, shop visits and repair capacity.

RTX is investing to expand that capacity. The company has made MRO investments in Singapore, plans to add a forging press at its Columbus, Georgia facility, and will install a new powder production tower at its HMI facility in New York.

These investments point directly to the materials side of aerospace. GTF recovery depends on reliable powder metallurgy, high-performance alloys, forged components, precision machining and certified repair capacity.

Defence demand adds another layer of support. Wars in the Middle East and Ukraine increased demand for defence systems, while Raytheon’s Patriot missile backlog strengthened RTX’s defence orderbook.

The industrial message is clear. RTX is benefiting from strong aerospace and defence markets, but the GTF engine issue shows that one material or component bottleneck can still constrain aircraft production.

The Metalnomist Commentary

RTX’s results show that aerospace demand remains strong, but production growth is still limited by engine and materials bottlenecks. Powder metallurgy, forging capacity and MRO infrastructure are now strategic parts of the aircraft supply chain, not just supporting processes.

Japan Tungsten Plant to Cut Sumitomo Electric’s Reliance on China

Sumitomo Electric

Japan tungsten plant investment by Sumitomo Electric Industries will expand domestic tungsten powder capacity and strengthen Japan’s critical mineral supply chain. The company plans to build a new facility in Toyama city with about ¥15.9bn, or $100mn, in investment.

The new plant will be operated by group company Allied Material and is scheduled to start operations in the first half of fiscal 2028. Sumitomo Electric said the project will expand its tungsten supply capacity by around 50%.

Japan tungsten plant development matters because tungsten is essential for cemented carbide cutting tools, semiconductors, electronic components and advanced industrial manufacturing. The investment also reflects Tokyo’s wider effort to reduce exposure to China-dominated critical material supply chains.

Tungsten Powder Capacity Supports High-End Manufacturing

The Toyama facility will expand production capacity for tungsten powder near Sumitomo Electric’s existing plant. The company has not yet disclosed the precise capacity of the new line.

Tungsten powder is a key input for cemented carbide tools used in metal cutting and precision machining. These tools support automotive, aerospace, electronics, machinery and industrial equipment production.

The material also has strategic relevance in semiconductors and electronic components. This makes tungsten more than a tooling metal; it is part of the materials base behind advanced manufacturing and technology supply chains.

Japan Backs Domestic Recycling and Supply Security

The Japanese government will cover about ¥7.5bn of the investment through a subsidy aimed at securing critical mineral supply chains. This public support shows that tungsten is now treated as a strategic industrial material.

Global tungsten supply remains heavily dependent on China. Sumitomo Electric said it currently relies on China for about 30% of its tungsten imports.

The new Japan tungsten plant will help the company strengthen its domestic recycling system and gradually reduce that dependence. Recycling will be especially important because secondary tungsten can improve supply resilience without relying only on new mined material.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Sumitomo Electric’s investment shows that tungsten security is becoming a manufacturing competitiveness issue. Japan is not only adding capacity; it is building a recycling-backed buffer for cutting tools, semiconductors and advanced components.

Zhangyuan Tungsten Sales Rise as Manufacturing Demand Supports Downstream Products

Zhangyuan Tungsten

Zhangyuan tungsten sales increased in 2025 as robust manufacturing demand lifted shipments of tungsten powder, tungsten carbide and cemented carbide products. The Chinese producer sold 4,928t of tungsten powder during the year, up 24% from 2024.

Zhangyuan tungsten sales also rose across higher-value downstream products. Tungsten carbide sales increased by 18% to 5,812t, while cemented carbide sales climbed by 20% to 1,363t.

Zhangyuan tungsten sales show that demand for cutting tools, industrial components and hard materials remained firm even as raw material prices corrected from record highs. The result highlights the importance of downstream tungsten products in China’s manufacturing supply chain.

Cemented carbide bar sales rose by 16% to 893t. Cemented carbide cutter sales also recovered strongly, reversing a 3% decline in the first half of 2025 to end the year up 22% at 27.11mn pieces.

Downstream Capacity Outpaces Internal Concentrate Supply

Zhangyuan has significant downstream tungsten capacity. The company has nameplate capacity of 12,000 t/yr of ammonium paratungstate, 15,000 t/yr of tungsten powder and 13,000 t/yr of tungsten carbide.

That scale makes the company a major consumer of tungsten raw materials. Its own tungsten concentrate output is not enough to meet internal demand, so it relies on external feedstock including APT and tungsten concentrate.

Zhangyuan produced 3,691t of tungsten concentrate in 2025, down slightly by 48t from a year earlier. This small decline reinforces the company’s dependence on purchased raw materials to support its downstream operations.

The operating structure matters because tungsten producers with strong downstream demand still face raw material exposure. Concentrate and APT availability can affect margins, procurement timing and product pricing.

Tungsten is strategically important for cemented carbide tools, drilling equipment, machining, aerospace, defence, electronics and high-performance industrial applications. Stronger sales from Zhangyuan therefore reflect continued demand from China’s manufacturing base.

Price Correction Slows Feedstock Buying After Record Highs

Zhangyuan lowered its term bidding price for 55% tungsten concentrate to 845,000 yuan/t for the second half of April, down from 930,000 yuan/t in the first half of the month. Its APT bidding range also fell to 1.35mn yuan/t from 1.44mn yuan/t.

The move reflected a wider correction in China’s tungsten market. Prices for 65% wolframite concentrate fell sharply after reaching record highs in March, while APT prices also declined over the same period.

Market participants reported limited spot deals and fewer term deliveries. Buyers slowed feedstock purchases because they expected further downward price corrections after the earlier price surge.

This creates a short-term tension in the tungsten chain. Downstream demand remains supported by manufacturing activity, but raw material buyers are cautious because prices moved too far too quickly.

For Zhangyuan, the key challenge is balancing strong downstream sales with disciplined feedstock procurement. If raw material prices continue to fall, margins may improve for processors that avoid overbuying at peak levels.

The broader market signal is clear. Tungsten demand remains industrially strong, but price volatility can disrupt buying behaviour across the concentrate, APT, powder and carbide chain.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Zhangyuan’s results show that China’s tungsten demand is being driven by downstream manufacturing, not only raw material speculation. The price correction may cool feedstock buying, but cemented carbide and cutting tool demand still point to tungsten’s strategic role in industrial production.

DongA Special Metal Begins Mass Production of High-Purity Ferro-Titanium

DongA Special Metal - Fe-Ti(Ferro-Titanium)

Korean firm pioneers domestic supply of advanced ferroalloy using titanium scrap and sustainable refining technology

Strategic Entry into the Ferroalloy Market

DongA Special Metal, a South Korean metallurgy company, has launched commercial-scale production of high-purity, high-quality ferro-titanium, marking a strategic entry into the global ferroalloy market. Ferro-titanium — an alloy of iron and titanium — is a vital material in steelmaking, where it serves as a powerful deoxidizer and cleanser, especially for high-grade steels, stainless steel, and special alloys. Despite growing demand, Asia has long relied on imports from Japan and China, with no domestic mass-production capacity — until now.

Closed-Loop Scrap Recycling and Custom Alloy Precision

DongA’s breakthrough lies in its ability to produce ferro-titanium using recycled industrial titanium scrap, implementing a proprietary refining process that ensures strict impurity control and customizable titanium content. The firm’s production allows titanium content to be adjusted between 30–75%, with tailored particle sizes and distribution, offering superior quality consistency over traditional suppliers. “The key differentiator is stable quality with adaptable specs. That’s our competitive edge,” said Vice President Jae-Ie Jang in an interview with The Metalnomist.

Powder-Grade Product for Core Wire Export

Beyond ingot forms, DongA also produces ferro-titanium powder for cored wire applications, used to inject precise Ti content into molten steel. Due to stringent quality requirements in powder metallurgy, any inconsistencies would render the material unusable — yet DongA's product has earned international recognition and is now being exported abroad. In applications like aerospace, defense, and high-temperature industrial components, ferro-titanium ensures both performance and durability under extreme conditions.

From Domestic Substitution to Industrial Security

By securing ISO quality and environmental certifications, DongA aims to align its products with global standards, reinforcing Korea’s self-sufficiency in strategic materials. Amid increasing global supply chain risks — including recent tariff tensions led by the Trump administration — the localization of key inputs like ferro-titanium is emerging as a national competitiveness issue. DongA’s model of resource circulation and material independence could soon become a blueprint for Korea’s broader industrial resilience.

The Metalnomist Commentary

DongA Special Metal's entry into the ferro-titanium space is more than market diversification — it's a national-level materials strategy. With advanced purification technology, recycling innovation, and precision metallurgy, the firm not only reduces reliance on imports but also sets the stage for Korean alloys to lead in critical sectors like aerospace, defense, and next-gen steelmaking.

Chile's Molymet to Begin Production of Highly Spherical Rhenium and Molybdenum Powders for Advanced Industries

Chile's Molymet, a leading global supplier of rhenium, is set to begin producing highly spherical rhenium and molybdenum powders this month, targeting advanced industries such as aerospace and medical sectors.

Molymet announced that it will start the production of spherical refractory powders, which are crucial in additive manufacturing processes like 3D printing. These powders are particularly valuable for industries that require high precision and specialized materials, including aerospace and medical applications.

The production will be facilitated by a plasma spheroidization system, which successfully completed its trial phase in July. This advanced system is capable of producing 1-1.2 tons of powder annually. Given that the global rhenium market is estimated at 45-70 tons per year, including secondary materials, Molymet's contribution is significant.

Molybdenum powder, which will also be produced, plays a vital role in alloying, electronics, coatings, welding, and the fabrication of specialty metals. Rhenium powder, on the other hand, is a key additive in tungsten alloys and nickel-based super-alloys. It is also critical in the production of semi-finished products like anode plates used in medical equipment.

Molymet, which controls 70% of the global rhenium supply, highlighted the increasing application of rhenium in new fields. Rhenium's biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion make it suitable for use in medical implants, pacemakers, joint prostheses, and X-ray machines. Despite these expanding applications, 70% of rhenium production remains dedicated to the aerospace industry, particularly for jet engines and gas turbines.

The rising demand from the aerospace and medical sectors, coupled with tight supply, has driven a sharp increase in rhenium prices since June.

Amermin tungsten carbide reclamation grant boosts US recycled carbide output

Amermin

Amermin tungsten carbide reclamation grant will scale reclaimed hardmetal production in Texas. The Amermin tungsten carbide reclamation grant totals $11.5mn through a DOE award routed via Melt Technologies. As a result, Amermin plans to expand its Briggs facility around tungsten carbide processing.

The expansion targets up to a 300pc increase in tungsten carbide output. Amermin says it produces virgin-quality tungsten carbide powder from recycled feedstock. Meanwhile, the company also recycles copper, nickel, cobalt, and lithium.

What the DOE award changes for tungsten carbide recycling

The DOE Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management supports faster capacity buildout at Briggs. The funding arrived through Amermin’s partner Melt Technologies and focuses on carbide reclamation. Therefore, the site can move from pilot-scale learning to higher-volume conversion.

Melt previously secured $11.5mn, including $5.7mn from DOE, for the pilot facility. That pilot design aimed to process more than 60,000lbs per month of tungsten carbide waste. However, the new scale-up phase should improve throughput, reliability, and powder consistency.

Why reclaimed tungsten matters for industry supply chains

Recycled tungsten carbide supports cutting tools, drilling, and precision machining with lower raw material exposure. Domestic reclamation shortens lead times for manufacturers and reduces logistics risk. Meanwhile, consistent powder quality matters for tool performance and downstream certification.

Amermin tungsten carbide reclamation grant also signals stronger policy backing for circular critical minerals. Capacity growth can pull more scrap into formal channels and stabilize input streams. Therefore, recyclers that secure feedstock contracts will capture the next wave of demand.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This funding favors pragmatic capacity expansion over greenfield mining timelines. However, the winner will be the operator that locks in scrap supply at predictable quality. If Amermin scales smoothly, recycled carbide can become a strategic buffer for US manufacturing.

Ramaco Brook mine expansion doubles coal and rare earth ambitions

Ramaco

The Ramaco Brook mine expansion will more than double planned coal and critical minerals output in Wyoming. Ramaco Brook mine expansion plans lift targeted thermal coal output to 5mn short tons a year by 2029. As a result, the Ramaco Brook mine expansion places the Brook project at the centre of Ramaco’s US growth story.

Ramaco Brook mine expansion transforms Powder River coal profile

Ramaco is using the Ramaco Brook mine expansion to scale its first Powder River basin operation. The company has raised its coal production target from 2mn short tons a year to a 5mn short ton base.

This new plan assumes mine ramp-up through 2029 under supportive market conditions. However, Ramaco also highlights upside potential to 8mn–10mn short tons a year if demand justifies it. The board has authorised management to start preparations for this larger profile.

Regulatory capacity still constrains near-term production despite the ambitious Ramaco Brook mine expansion. The current permit allows up to 2.5mn short tons of sub-bituminous coal per year. Therefore, Ramaco will “actively engage” state and federal regulators to extend approvals across nearly 16,000 acres, up from about 4,500 acres today.

Ramaco Brook mine expansion boosts US rare earth and oxide output

The Ramaco Brook mine expansion also significantly upgrades the project’s critical mineral ambitions. Planned rare earth and critical mineral oxide output has risen from 1,240 short tons a year to 3,400 short tons.

This increased target supports a mine life exceeding 60 years at higher production levels. Meanwhile, Ramaco is adjusting designs for its oxide processing plant to handle greater throughput. The company expects to start operating an oxide pilot plant later this year.

Construction of a commercial-scale processing facility is scheduled to begin in 2026, aligning with the broader Ramaco Brook mine expansion timeline. At the corporate level, Brook complements Ramaco’s metallurgical coal operations in West Virginia and Virginia, which produced 3.5mn short tons in 2024. As a result, Ramaco evolves from a pure met coal producer into a hybrid coal and critical minerals company.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Brook’s redesign confirms that coal basins can also be platforms for US rare earth and critical mineral strategies. If Ramaco secures permits and funding on schedule, the Ramaco Brook mine expansion could become a notable domestic source of both power coal and strategic oxides. Market participants should track permit amendments, offtake discussions and the performance of the oxide pilot plant as key de-risking milestones.

Almonty Tungsten Oxide Supply for US Defense Strengthens Critical Mineral Chain

Tungsten Parts Wyoming

Strategic Agreement Secures Domestic Defense Supply

Almonty Industries has signed a binding deal to supply tungsten oxide for US defense programs through Tungsten Parts Wyoming (TPW). The agreement ensures a monthly minimum of 40t of tungsten oxide for three years, reinforcing North America's critical mineral security. The agreement includes a hard price floor and automatic annual renewal, though pricing details remain undisclosed.

Multi-National Processing and Supply Chain

TPW will send the tungsten oxide to Metal Tech, an Israeli processor, for conversion into tungsten metal powder. Processing will occur in Israel or the US, after which the powder will feed into TPW’s products used in US military programs. These include tungsten super shot, blasting media, and specialized components for defense-grade applications.

Sandong Mine to Anchor Long-Term Supply

Tungsten oxide deliveries will begin once Almonty launches commercial-scale output from its Sandong mine in South Korea. The mine targets 2.3mn t/yr of oxide in its first phase, with nearly half committed to US-based Global Tungsten & Powders. Almonty also signed an offtake agreement with South Korea’s SeAH for all molybdenum output from the same project.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This deal marks a critical step toward onshoring and diversifying tungsten supply chains for US defense. As geopolitical risks mount, multi-national processing and guaranteed offtakes offer essential redundancy and resilience.

US DoD Invests in Domestic Niobium Production to Secure Supply

The US Department of Defense (DoD)

The US Department of Defense (DoD) is taking significant steps to secure the domestic supply of niobium, a metal essential for defense and aerospace applications. In a strategic move to reduce reliance on imports, the DoD has awarded a $26.4 million grant to Global Advanced Metals (GAM) under the Defense Production Act Investments (DPAI) program. This funding will enable GAM to enhance production of high-purity niobium oxide at its Pennsylvania facility. The investment aligns with the National Defense Industrial Strategy, prioritizing the expansion of domestic production to mitigate supply chain risks.

Niobium's Role in Defense and Aerospace

Niobium, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and refractory properties, plays a crucial role in aerospace components. Its lower density compared to other refractory metals makes it ideal for reducing mass in systems like jet engines, solid rocket motor skirts, and turbine nozzles. As China accelerates its development of hypersonic weapons, the US government has expressed concern about securing a reliable supply of niobium for applications in these advanced defense platforms.

The grant to GAM will also enable the company to refine its production processes, integrating new workflows that are expected to increase efficiency. As niobium oxide is currently predominantly sourced from Brazil, this move marks a critical step toward reducing US dependence on foreign sources.

America's Response to Global Competition

In addition to GAM's efforts, the DoD is also supporting projects aimed at enhancing the cost-efficiency of niobium-based materials. The Powder Alloy Development of Additive Manufacturing (PADAM) project, led by America Makes and financed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is focused on improving niobium alloy production, particularly Nb C-103. This project seeks to expand the supply base while making niobium powder feedstocks more affordable and versatile for defense applications.

The increased focus on niobium highlights its importance in the defense sector, particularly as the US faces growing competition from nations like China, which is developing hypersonic missiles that rely heavily on niobium components. The success of these initiatives will not only secure the US niobium supply but also support the nation's defense systems for years to come.

IperionX and Aperam Expand Titanium Partnership

Aperam

IperionX, a US-based titanium manufacturer, and Aperam, a Luxembourg-based specialty metals producer operating through its US subsidiary, are intensifying efforts to establish a closed-loop domestic supply chain for titanium.

In a recent agreement, Aperam's ELG Utica Alloys will supply IperionX with 12 metric tonnes of titanium scrap sourced from consumer electronics and technology hardware sectors. IperionX will meticulously qualify the scrap, providing ELG with comprehensive reports on its quality and material properties.

As part of the trial program's initial phase, IperionX will convert 1 ton of titanium scrap into titanium powder, subsequently using the powder to produce various semi-finished products, including near-net shapes, in the second phase. The remaining 11 tonnes will be securely stored for future use, contingent upon a forthcoming agreement. Without such an agreement, IperionX will return the scrap to ELG.

After each trial phase's completion, IperionX will invoice ELG $150,000. The agreement is set to remain in effect until June 30, 2026, unless terminated by either party.

This collaboration builds upon their initial agreement in July 2023, wherein ELG supplied 10 tonnes of titanium scrap to IperionX for $60,000. Concurrently, discussions commenced for a comprehensive, long-term supply and processing arrangement. ELG proposed to provide IperionX with 12 tonnes of titanium scrap monthly, while acting as a toll processor for titanium scrap sourced independently by IperionX.

EU Awards €7.3mn Grant to Titanium Consortium for Sustainable Extraction and Processing

EU Titanium

The EU has awarded a €7.3mn ($8.1mn) grant to 13 companies under its REPTiS project for the responsible extraction and processing of titanium and other primary raw materials for EU industrial value chains and strategic sectors. The grant will be used to demonstrate the viability of titanium extraction, processing, and deployment within the EU in collaboration with Ukraine.

Funded under the EU's Horizon Europe programme, the project will run for four years, ending on August 31, 2028. The project is coordinated by the European Powder Metallurgy Association (EPMA), with major participants including Ukrainian titanium producer Velta and aerospace manufacturer GKN Aerospace. Most of the funding is earmarked for Velta and the EPMA, while other recipients include companies specializing in metal injection molding, additive manufacturing, research centers, and universities. The full €7.3mn budget allocation is yet to be detailed.

The goal is to showcase solutions for titanium extraction and processing across the value chain, including mining ilmenite ore at Velta's Byrzulivske deposit and producing low-carbon titanium powder. Technologies like additive manufacturing and metal injection molding will be employed to manufacture aerospace components and medical products.

A life-cycle assessment will compare these methods to conventional practices. Velta's CEO, Andriy Brodsky, emphasized that the EU’s recognition of Ukraine as a strategic partner ensures a secure titanium supply chain, crucial for global industries. The Ukrainian government has been encouraging international investment in the country's titanium industry, with a key auction for titanium firm UMCC set for October 9.

RTX Boosts Heat Exchanger Production for Boeing 787 Dreamliners

U.S. aerospace giant RTX is ramping up production of heat exchangers crucial for Boeing's 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which had faced production slowdowns due to a shortage of this key component. RTX CEO Chris Calio addressed investors, stating, "We're starting to ramp up there to the rates that we need to support what we think Boeing's demand is."

Heat exchangers were among the supply issues that Boeing cited in April as factors reducing the manufacturing rates of the twin-aisle aircraft, with production dipping below the five jets per month achieved at the end of 2023.

Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX, manufactures these heat exchangers, which can include metals like titanium. The unit struggled to meet Boeing's requirements after relocating its Russian operations due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "We had to set up another source here and set up a separate supply chain," Calio explained. "And that has taken some time."

Boeing expects to return to normal production rates by the end of the year, aiming to produce 10 787s per month by 2026.

RTX also acknowledged it is "not necessarily where we need to be" in terms of engine production rates for Airbus, which reduced its full-year delivery guidance in June due to supply chain challenges. The company, through its Pratt & Whitney unit, continues to manufacture jet engines.

The company is addressing issues related to its geared turbofan fleet management plan, identifying a "rare condition in powder metal" used in high-pressure turbine and compressor discs that could lead to operational failures in Pratt & Whitney's PW-1100G-JM fleet, which powers Airbus' narrow-body A320 family. RTX is producing spare engines with full-life powder metal parts after addressing these issues in first-run engines. Two new maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities have been added to increase capacity.

Despite these challenges, demand for aerospace original equipment and aftermarket services remained strong, leading RTX to raise its full-year earnings guidance to $78.75bn-79.5bn from the previous forecast of $78bn-79bn. Pratt & Whitney's quarterly deliveries of large commercial engines rose by 24% to 236 units from the same period last year.

However, RTX's profit for the quarter fell sharply to $111 million from $1.3 billion in the prior-year period, largely due to over $1 billion in one-time charges related to outstanding legal issues. Revenue rose by 7.7% to $19.7 billion during the same period.

Japan tungsten recycling expansion accelerates after China export controls

the International Tungsten Industry Association(ITIA)

Japan tungsten recycling expansion is now central to the country’s response to China’s new export controls. Japan has no domestic tungsten mines and historically relied on Chinese APT and cemented carbide imports. As a result, Japan tungsten recycling expansion is becoming the primary lever to secure supply and stabilise its hard-metal value chain. Japan tungsten recycling expansion also reflects a broader shift toward circularity and strategic raw material resilience.

Scrap flows highlight the scale of Japan tungsten recycling expansion

Japan is ramping tungsten scrap utilisation to compensate for lower Chinese export volumes. The country generates 3,500–4,000t of tungsten scrap annually, with about half recycled domestically and half exported. However, Japan also imports 500–1,000t of scrap each year, underscoring its dependence on global recycling networks.

China’s export controls on APT and cemented carbide have sharply reduced shipments into Japan. No other producing country has fully offset this loss, creating a structural shortfall in virgin tungsten materials. Therefore, Japanese industry is pushing harder to capture and process scrap from cutting tools and hard-metal components.

Scrap exports to overseas processors have also surged as part of this adjustment. From April to June, Japan exported 865t of tungsten scrap, double the previous quarter. Much of this material goes to the US, Germany and Taiwan for conversion into tungsten carbide powder. Meanwhile, limited domestic processing capacity means Japan must then reimport refined powders or finished tools.

Japan lacks tungsten recycling capacity comparable to leading manufacturing countries such as Germany. Market participants agree that higher prices and strong scrap demand create a window to invest in domestic plants. Companies like Mitsubishi Materials and Sumitomo Group are intensifying recycling efforts, but significant capacity additions will take time to materialise.

Strategic impact of Japan tungsten recycling expansion on supply security

Japan tungsten recycling expansion carries important strategic implications beyond near-term supply balancing. By strengthening domestic scrap processing, Japan can reduce exposure to Chinese export policies over the medium term. At the same time, enhanced recycling supports national goals on circular economy and lower carbon metal supply.

Industry leaders emphasise that Japan still needs a framework for constructive cooperation with China. However, they also stress that recycling will play a growing role in any long-term procurement strategy. As a result, Japan tungsten recycling expansion is viewed as both a defensive and forward-looking move. It protects critical industries today while aligning with future ESG requirements.

Higher tungsten prices and constrained primary supply should continue to incentivise investment in collection, sorting and processing infrastructure. Tool manufacturers and end-users will likely see tighter take-back schemes and more advanced recycling logistics. In five to ten years, today’s disruption may be remembered as the catalyst that forced Japan to build a more robust, diversified tungsten procurement system.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Japan’s response to China’s tungsten export controls shows how quickly advanced manufacturing economies can pivot toward recycling when supply shocks hit. If current investment momentum holds, Japan could evolve from a largely import-dependent buyer into a more balanced scrap-and-powder hub. Market participants should watch where new recycling plants are sited and how quickly domestic processing capacity closes the gap with Germany and other leaders.

China's JDC Lifts Ferro-Molybdenum Alloy Output in 2024

Jinduicheng Molybdenum

Jinduicheng Molybdenum Reports 47% Surge in Alloy Production

China’s Jinduicheng Molybdenum (JDC) significantly boosted its ferro-molybdenum alloy output in 2024, highlighting strong operational momentum. JDC produced 22,847 tonnes of molybdenum metal equivalent, marking a 47% increase from 2023. Sales reached 21,748 tonnes, up 36% year-on-year.

The state-controlled firm also ramped up production of ammonium molybdate and molybdenum powder, growing by 11% and 12%, respectively. This output growth underscores JDC’s strategy to enhance value-added product output amid robust domestic demand.

Mining Capacity Supports Growth Outlook

JDC operates two key mining assets — the Jinduicheng Mine (13.4mn t/yr capacity) and the Ruyang Donggou Mine (8.8mn t/yr). Together, these provide a stable ore supply, reinforcing JDC’s ability to scale alloy and powder production.

Nationally, China produced 306,000 tonnes of molybdenum concentrate in 2024, reflecting an 8.5% increase from the previous year. Ferro-molybdenum consumption in China grew 12%, reaching 190,000 tonnes, driven by downstream applications in construction and clean energy.

Strong Demand Expected in Steel, Energy, and Aerospace Sectors

JDC forecasts continued strong demand in 2025 due to the widespread use of molybdenum-containing steels. These materials are crucial in new energy systems, advanced materials, and aerospace engineering, aligning with China's industrial upgrade goals.

Meanwhile, tightening global supply and rising alloy-grade specifications may support firm molybdenum pricing throughout the year. JDC is likely to maintain output discipline while leveraging its vertically integrated structure to navigate future volatility.

The Metalnomist Commentary

JDC’s growth underscores China’s ability to secure domestic alloy production amid global uncertainty. As energy transition accelerates, materials like molybdenum will be strategic levers in the race for industrial dominance.