By: ICN Bureau
Last updated : February 10, 2026 3:59 pm
This strategic alliance fast-tracks the development of high-performance PGM technologies from the lab to the market
Johnson Matthey (JM), Sibanye-Stillwater, and Valterra Platinum have launched a joint initiative to pioneer new technologies powered by Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). By combining the expertise of top PGM producers with world-class R&D, this partnership aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and commercial application, leveraging these high-performance metals to address global challenges and drive industrial growth.
The programme aims to broaden the applications of PGMs far beyond their current use. Around 60% of global PGM supply is used in catalytic converters that reduce harmful emissions from internal combustion engines (ICE). This multi-million-pound, multi-year collaboration will explore and scale technologies that capitalise on the exceptional performance and durability of PGMs as well as their robust, circular supply chains.
Liz Rowsell, Chief Technology Officer at Johnson Matthey, said: “PGMs are critical to the modern economy, so it's important we are innovative and ambitious in our efforts to find new applications for these incredible metals.
"By coming together, we're able to create a unique ecosystem to explore opportunities where PGMs could provide even more benefits and progress the technologies that best support the PGM industry and the global economy.”
The collaboration, expected to expand with additional partners in the coming months, will explore uses across multiple sectors including clean hydrogen, enhanced emissions detection and reduction across stationary and mobile sources, new electronic materials, and high-performance alloys and other advanced materials.
Richard Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of Sibanye-Stillwater, commented: “We are pleased to be partnering with JM and Valterra on this critical market development initiative. We believe that this collaboration should successfully develop alternative industrial applications for PGMs, securing and diversifying future demand. The focus will be on the entire basket of PGMs and developing a better supply and demand balance for the basket of metals.”
Craig Miller, CEO of Valterra Platinum, commented: “PGMs have extraordinary potential, and through this collaboration with JM and Sibanye-Stillwater, we can accelerate innovation that will better our world. This reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a sustainable pipeline of PGM-enabled technologies that will define the next era of demand.”