Ascend and Trafigura ink multi-year lithium carbonate deal

The partnership aims to support Ascend Elements’ North American and European pipeline

Ascend Elements, a US-based leader in sustainable battery materials and lithium-ion recycling, has signed a multi-year offtake agreement with Trafigura, securing 15,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate to be delivered between 2027 and 2031.

The deal pairs Trafigura’s worldwide marketing and logistics reach with Ascend Elements’ Hydro-to-Cathode process, which converts recycled lithium-ion batteries and manufacturing scrap into low-carbon, battery-grade lithium carbonate.

The partnership aims to support Ascend Elements’ North American and European pipeline while giving Trafigura a steady supply of recycled materials for its global customers.

"Trafigura’s global platform paired with our Hydro-to-Cathode process turns circularity into supply security,” said Linh Austin, CEO of Ascend Elements. “Together, we’ll deliver traceable, responsibly sourced lithium carbonate where it’s needed, reducing carbon, cost, and geopolitical risk while accelerating a resilient battery supply chain.”

Gonzalo De Olazaval, Trafigura’s Global Head of Metals and Minerals, added: “We are excited to partner with Ascend Elements to support the circular economy. Their patented process is advancing domestic battery supply chains in the U.S. and Europe—a critical step for supply security.”