Critical Mineral

Phosphorus

Key to ultra-stable, fire-resilient LFP chemistries.

Phosphorus forms the backbone of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and related cathode families. It enables long-life, thermally stable cells ideal for EVs, buses, and grid-scale storage.

Role in the battery value chain

Core component of LFP and other iron-phosphate cathodes, delivering long cycle life and safety.
Enables chemistries optimized for buses, commercial vehicles, and residential or grid storage.
Supports cost-effective, cobalt-free designs that reduce supply chain and ESG risk.

From ore to battery-grade material

Phosphorus-bearing ores and intermediates are processed into high-purity phosphoric acid and specialized precursors. In cathode plants, these materials are reacted with iron and lithium sources, then calcined and milled into precisely engineered powders ready for coating.

National security & resilience

Building domestic capability to process phosphorus for advanced cathodes reduces dependence on foreign LFP supply chains and keeps strategic storage know-how in the United States.

Environmental & community considerations

Phosphorus processing requires careful management of by-products and effluents. Advanced process design and recycling of off-spec materials help minimize environmental footprint.

The American Battery connects phosphorus 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.