Energy Storage
Battery materials, fuel cell ceramics, and grid-scale storage solutions.
Storing the Energy Transition
Grid-scale energy storage and fuel cell systems rely on rare earth and critical materials. Lanthanum and cerium are used in NiMH batteries and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) electrolytes. Yttrium stabilizes zirconia ceramics for high-temperature fuel cells.
As renewable energy penetration increases, demand for storage solutions accelerates. Securing compliant supply of battery-grade materials and ceramic precursors is strategic for energy storage developers and utilities.
Performance is a materials problem: YSZ electrolyte formulations balance ionic conductivity with mechanical integrity; La‑Ni hydrides trade capacity for cycle life; and stack performance depends on every ceramic precursor being in‑spec. Qualification and supply discipline are key.
Critical Elements
Key Applications
NiMH batteries (hybrid vehicles, grid storage)
Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) stacks and balance of plant
Yttria‑stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte and seal ceramics
Redox flow battery electrolyte additives
Hydrogen storage alloys (La‑Ni based)
Market Challenges
- •Technology competition (Li-ion vs. NiMH vs. SOFC)
- •Cost pressure from Chinese supply chains
- •Long development cycles for grid-scale projects
- •Regulatory uncertainty on energy storage incentives
Strategic Opportunities
- →Project-specific supply agreements for grid storage
- →Partnerships with fuel cell developers
- →Diversified sourcing (China + ROW)
- →Recycling of NiMH batteries for secondary supply
- →Technical collaboration on next-gen materials