Ocean Lith uses its autonomous underwater vehicle, Pleco 1, to collect polymetallic nodules from depths of up to 4,500 m without disturbing marine habitats. The nodules are processed with proprietary bio‑extraction techniques that employ engineered bacteria to produce high‑purity, battery‑grade cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese while cutting CO₂ emissions by up to 90 % and eliminating toxic chemicals and solid waste. The company supplies these sustainably sourced critical metals to battery manufacturers and EV/energy‑storage producers seeking low‑carbon supply chains.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Traditional mining of battery metals relies on land-based extraction and chemical processing that generate high CO₂ emissions, use toxic acids, and produce large amounts of waste, creating significant environmental impact. Additionally, the supply chain for critical metals such as cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese is vulnerable to geopolitical and sustainability concerns.
Solution
Ocean Lith deploys the autonomous underwater vehicle “Pleco 1” to harvest polymetallic nodules from the deep‑sea floor at depths up to 4,500 m without disturbing marine habitats. The collected nodules are processed using proprietary bio‑extraction techniques that employ specialized bacterial strains to dissolve and separate high‑purity metals in solution, eliminating the need for harsh acids, extreme heat, and extensive energy inputs. This approach reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 90 % compared with conventional mining and generates minimal solid waste. The resulting cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese meet battery‑grade specifications, providing a sustainable source of critical materials for low‑carbon battery production. Ocean Lith’s integrated AI‑driven mapping and vehicle control ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible operations.
Target Audience
Primary customers are battery manufacturers and downstream EV or energy‑storage producers seeking responsibly sourced critical metals, as well as strategic metal traders focused on low‑carbon supply chains.
Features
- Autonomous “Pleco 1” AUV capable of operating at 4,500 m depth for non‑invasive nodule collection
- AI‑enhanced seafloor mapping and marine life detection to avoid habitat disruption
- Bio‑extraction process using engineered bacterial strains to leach metals without toxic chemicals
- Production of battery‑grade cobalt, nickel, copper, and manganese with >90 % reduction in CO₂ emissions
- Closed‑loop processing that yields negligible solid waste and lowers overall energy consumption
- Real‑time data telemetry and remote monitoring for operational transparency and safety