The producer, currently known for its zinc concentrate output at the Empire State Mine, is building a commercial order book to support the expansion of its graphite production capacity. President and Chief Executive Rita Adiani described the move as a strategic alignment with federal and industrial initiatives to bolster American critical mineral independence.

Natural graphite remains a high-priority material for the U.S. government, serving essential roles in advanced manufacturing, energy storage, and defense systems. Finalizing the supply agreement depends on several outstanding requirements, including the completion of a feasibility study, the acquisition of project financing, and the procurement of necessary regulatory approvals.