Ionic Rare Earths Limited Pioneers US Magnet Recycling Facilities to Bolster Domestic Rare Earth Supply Chain for Defence and Tech Industries
Monday, June 23, 2025
at
9:18 am
Ionic Rare Earths Limited advances US partnerships to develop multiple magnet recycling plants, supporting domestic rare earth supply amid rising US demand for strategic and defense sectors. Its patented technology converts spent magnets into high-purity rare earth oxides, paving the way for a resilient, sustainable supply chain independent of traditional overseas sources.
Ionic Rare Earths Limited is deepening its engagement with US partners to develop a domestic rare earth supply chain by exploring multiple potential magnet recycling plants across the United States. The company is leveraging proprietary processes developed by its 100% owned UK subsidiary to separate and refine rare earth oxides (REOs) from spent and scrap magnets. This innovative recycling technology has demonstrated the ability to achieve high purity levels in excess of 99.9%, offering a viable solution to near-term requirements in advanced manufacturing and defense applications.
The initiative comes against a backdrop of increasing US government efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese materials. With policies targeting a complete removal of Chinese rare earth content from defense systems by 2027, there is significant momentum to establish domestic production capabilities. Ionic Rare Earths Limited has already dispatched demonstration samples and engineering deliverables from its Belfast facility to US partners, while discussions continue regarding site planning and construction of recycling facilities in various states. In addition to its recycling plans, the company is also assessing opportunities to expand into domestic production of other rare earth elements affected by recent Chinese export restrictions.
Efforts to establish a robust, sovereign supply chain are further supported by the company’s strategic partnerships in the UK, Europe, South Korea, Brazil, and now the United States. These initiatives represent a low capital expenditure and low emissions approach to supply chain resilience, positioning the company as a potential key player in the restructuring of rare earth sourcing on a global scale.
Bullish sentiment on this development centers on the strong governmental and industry backing for reducing dependency on foreign suppliers, which could accelerate technological adoption and secure strategic market positions. The company’s proven recycling technology and ongoing international collaborations add to its potential to fill a critical supply gap in the US market, particularly as demand for high-performance magnets continues to rise across defense and automotive sectors.
Conversely, the bearish perspective raises caution over execution risk and the substantial capital and time investments required to fully realize a domestic supply chain. Uncertainties in finalizing agreements with US partners, coupled with the evolving regulatory landscape and competitive pressures, pose challenges that could slow progress. Investors may remain wary due to the forward-looking nature of these initiatives and the inherent risks associated with scaling up new technologies in a sensitive industry.