Aqua Metals Secures U.S. Patent for Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Technology

Patent Approval Strengthens Aqua Metals’ Position in LIB Recycling

Aqua Metals Inc., a Nevada-based lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycler, has secured a U.S. patent for its proprietary AquaRefining technology. The United States Patent and Trademark Office granted the notice of allowance for Patent Application No. 17/584,975. It covers key components of the company’s hydrometallurgical recycling process.

This patent validates Aqua Metals’ years of R&D, progressing from lab-scale work to pilot operations. The technology recovers battery-grade lithium carbonate, high-purity nickel, and cobalt from spent LIB black mass. Unlike traditional methods, AquaRefining relies on an electrified, regenerative process that eliminates sodium sulfate waste and generates minimal CO₂ emissions.

In addition to environmental advantages, Aqua Metals reports cost savings of roughly $1,100 per metric ton of black mass input compared to conventional methods. This combination of sustainability and cost efficiency positions the company to meet growing global demand for clean battery materials.

AquaRefining Technology Opens Path for Global Partnerships

With this patent, Aqua Metals strengthens its intellectual property foundation. Moreover, it sets the stage for expansion through licensing and joint ventures. CEO Steve Cotton emphasized the significance of the milestone, calling it key to building a “clean, secure, and domestic battery materials supply chain.”

The company is already in discussions with multiple potential partners globally. These include firms interested in adopting the AquaRefining process to improve their environmental performance and reduce operating costs. Aqua Metals also plans to commercialize a new process for producing lithium battery precursors, with additional patents pending.

As lithium-ion battery usage grows—especially in electric vehicles and energy storage—Aqua Metals’ technology could play a central role in domestic battery material production. Its ability to deliver high-purity output with lower emissions aligns with industrial decarbonization goals worldwide.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Aqua Metals’ patent approval comes at a crucial time for the battery supply chain. With global pressure mounting for cleaner, localized, and circular solutions, companies like Aqua Metals are shifting the paradigm. The AquaRefining process not only reduces costs and emissions but also contributes to securing strategic battery materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. This breakthrough could help mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities. It supports policy goals around electrification and domestic sourcing.