Ascend Elements

Using its patented Hydro-to-Cathode® direct precursor synthesis process, the company converts end-of-life batteries and manufacturing scrap into battery-grade lithium carbonate, cathode precursor (pCAM), and related materials such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese sulfates. This closed-loop approach supports domestic supply chains for electric vehicles and energy storage by recovering critical minerals with lower emissions than traditional mining and refining.

Headquartered in Westborough, Massachusetts, the company operates its Base 1 commercial recycling facility in Covington, Georgia, with capacity to process tens of thousands of metric tons of battery materials annually. It has developed additional sites including Apex 1 in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. International expansion efforts have included joint ventures and planned facilities in Europe.

Founded in 2015 from research at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (formerly known as Battery Resourcers), Ascend Elements has secured substantial private equity investment and U.S. Department of Energy grants. In April 2026 it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the Southern District of Texas to restructure operations and liabilities, with assets subsequently subject to sale proceedings. The company has supplied recycled lithium carbonate under agreements supporting downstream chemical production, including for lithium hexafluorophosphate manufacturing projects.