UK Government Funds NioCorp-Backed Project for Recycled Aluminum Car Parts

NioCorp Developments Ltd. announced participation in a consortium awarded UK government funding to develop recycled aluminum automotive parts. The $8 million project will design lightweight aluminum alloys, incorporating scandium, to enhance mechanical properties without sacrificing recycled aluminum's environmental benefits. This aims to cut carbon intensity by 94% compared to primary aluminum.

Known as Project PIVOT, the initiative involves major industry players, including Aston Martin and Boeing UK. Funding of $3.8 million comes from the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, with additional contributions from participants. Led by Sarginsons, the project seeks to revolutionize aluminum casting.

NioCorp will supply aluminum-scandium master alloys for research and development, expanding scandium oxide production at its Nebraska project. CEO Mark A. Smith emphasized the collaborative effort to innovate automotive components using scandium and recycled aluminum.