Critical Mineral
Cobalt
Stability and safety in demanding chemistries.
Cobalt has historically been used to stabilize high-energy cathodes. While many chemistries are reducing cobalt content, it remains critical in specific applications.
Role in the battery value chain
- Improves structural stability and cycle life in some high-nickel cathode families.
- Supports high-power and high-temperature performance where needed.
- Increasingly deployed in lower proportions as chemistry innovation advances.
From ore to battery-grade material
Cobalt is often produced as a by-product of copper and nickel mining. It is refined into cobalt sulfate and other compounds used in cathode precursor plants.
National security & resilience
Ethical and secure sourcing of cobalt is a strategic challenge. The American Battery emphasizes traceability, allied sourcing, and technology pathways that reduce total cobalt intensity.
Environmental & community considerations
Strong social and environmental standards are essential in cobalt supply chains, supported by third-party audits and on-the-ground partnerships. Recycling is a powerful lever for recovering cobalt from spent batteries.
The American Battery connects cobalt to the full lithium-ion value chain—from mining and refining through active materials, cells, packs, and recycling—so that policymakers, partners, and citizens can see how this element supports American energy security.