Archive · 10 Dec 2025
Silicon Valley Startups Race to Secure Critical Minerals
Silicon Valley startups are working hard to make important minerals like aluminum and magnesium right here in the U.S. instead of relying on China.
These minerals are used in many things we use every day, like smartphones, cars, and airplanes.
Companies like Brimstone are using special rocks and new technology to make these minerals cheaper and more available.
The U.S. government and private investors are also putting money into these efforts to make sure the country has a steady supply.
This is important because China has been controlling the supply of these minerals, and it's risky for the U.S. to depend on them.
By making these minerals at home, the U.S. can be more self-sufficient and avoid problems if China stops exporting them.
Silicon Valley startups are developing new methods to produce critical minerals domestically to reduce dependence on China.
Brimstone, a startup in Oakland, is processing gabbro to produce aluminum, magnesium, and other minerals at a lower cost.
The U.S. government and private investors are investing heavily in critical mineral startups to ensure supply chain resilience.
China's export restrictions on critical minerals have forced American manufacturers to seek new suppliers and absorb higher costs.
Experts agree that the U.S. is unlikely to return to the same level of dependency on China for critical minerals.
- Who
- Silicon Valley startups, including Brimstone, and other companies globally
- What
- Developing new methods to produce critical minerals domestically
- When
- Ongoing, with increased efforts since 2023 due to China's export restrictions
- Where
- Primarily in the U.S., with efforts also in the U.K. and other countries
- Why
- To reduce dependence on China for critical minerals and ensure supply chain resilience
- Company
- Brimstone
- Location
- Oakland, California
- Minerals Produced
- Aluminum, Magnesium, Titanium, Aluminum
- Cost Reduction
- 40% less than traditional methods
- Energy Cost Savings
- 30% to 50% cheaper at full scale
- Investment in U.S. Startups
- $600 million in 2024
- China's Export Restrictions
- Since 2023, with tighter enforcement expected
- U.S. Dependency on Imports
- 54 critical minerals