NIST Releases Report on Strengthening U.S. Metals Processing Infrastructure

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released a new report outlining strategies to build a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient U.S. metals processing infrastructure. The report identifies key challenges facing the sector—including the need for stronger standards for recycled content and vulnerabilities in supply chains for critical materials—and proposes actions to support long-term industrial competitiveness. 

The publication, Material Challenges in Developing a Sustainable Metal Processing Infrastructure, is informed by a 2024 NIST workshop that brought together experts from industry, academia, and government. Participants examined the full metals lifecycle, from mining and alloy design to manufacturing, reuse, and recycling, with a focus on improving sustainability and mitigating risks associated with scarce or geopolitically sensitive materials. 

The report highlights the growing importance of critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, as well as advanced alloys used in sectors ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace. To reduce supply chain risks, the report notes opportunities to diversify material sources, develop substitutes, and expand recycling and recirculation of existing materials. 

Among its recommendations, NIST identifies five priority strategies: advancing measurement science for sustainable metals production; generating the technical basis for new or improved recycling and performance standards; enhancing data and modeling tools; strengthening workforce development through training partnerships; and expanding collaboration across the metals processing ecosystem. 

According to NIST, improving standards, data, and technical capabilities—combined with deeper collaboration—will be essential to modernizing U.S. metals processing and supporting national innovation and security objectives.