It said in a release Thursday that it would be collaborating with UK blockchain start-up Circulor to pilot blockchain technology to create traceability of EV battery metals from mine to first use and then recycling to ensure they are ethically-sourced and continue through a circular economy.

American Manganese CEO Larry Reaugh said the pilot would include mapping the lifecycle of an EV battery and understanding the value flow through the production process and lifecycle. It would also provide a road map for American Manganese to source valuable lithium-ion batteries.

During the pilot, the two companies would also engage with other industrial parties in the EV battery lifecycle, including car manufacturers.

Circulor CEO Doug Johnson-Poensgen said blockchain technology had the potential to "transform complex industrial supply chains both by assuring provenance and improving efficiency". 

"This joint project will create the first blockchain solution designed specifically for the EV circular economy," he said.