The MiningNewsWire Podcast

First Cobalt Corp. (TSX.V: FCC) (OTCQX: FTSSF) is a vertically integrated North American pure-play cobalt company. First Cobalt has three significant North American assets: the Iron Creek Project in Idaho, the Canadian Cobalt Camp and the only permitted cobalt refinery in North America capable of producing battery materials. 

The United States — and the entire world — have become critically dependent on cobalt, which is essential for rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries to retain and discharge electricity.

• Cobalt deemed critical for United States security and economic prosperity
• Cobalt need expected to increase with soaring Li-ion battery demand
• U.S. business and military dependent on unstable cobalt sources; North American initiatives seek solutions

In May, cobalt was added to the United States’ list of minerals critical to its security and economic prosperity. Far beyond laptops, phones and electronic gadgets, the Li-ion battery is increasingly important for electric grid power storage and the revved-up electric vehicle market, as well as military applications such as tactical radios, thermal imagers, portable computing and turbine blades in gas turbines and aircraft jet engines.