Community Scholarship: Applications Accepted February 6 - March 6 

We are proud to announce the Albemarle Kings Mountain Community Scholarship beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year, dedicated to supporting Cleveland County's aspiring science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

An Update on Odor Near the Kings Mountain Site 

In response to the natural occurrence of the water in the Kings Mountain Mine pit recently “turning over,” we want to continue to provide information about the ongoing air monitoring we are conducting. To date, Albemarle has applied readings captured by our air monitoring against applicable regulatory guidelines for on-site personnel. During our monitoring, all readings of hydrogen sulfide have been less than 1 part-per-million (ppm). 

Recently, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) elected to compare Albemarle’s air monitoring data recorded from monitoring stations located near or beyond the site’s property boundary against a Minimum Response Level (MRL) established for hydrogen sulfide. 

Based on findings shared with Albemarle, DEQ’s analysis confirmed readings were below the reference level. Their analysis did indicate that an odor could be present at times as hydrogen sulfide is detectable at lower levels of concentration.  

We are sharing our air monitoring data weekly with DEQ staff, and we appreciate their continued engagement to help assess the health and safety of the surrounding community. As members of the Kings Mountain community, we are committed to sharing updates on our continued efforts. Should you have any further questions, our Community Relations staff is available by phone (704-734-2775) or email kmcommunity@albemarle.com.

        Early Site Preparations at the Kings Mountain Mine Project

Lithium's Vital Role in Pacemaker Advancements

In recognition of American Heart Month this February, we celebrate lithium's pivotal contribution to cardiac health, particularly in the evolution of pacemaker technology.

The development of implantable cardiac pacemakers in the late 1950s marked a significant advancement in treating heart rhythm disorders. Early models, however, were hindered by short battery life, necessitating frequent surgical replacements and posing risks to patients.

The introduction of lithium-iodine batteries in the late 1960s revolutionized pacemaker technology. These batteries offer a longer lifespan, reducing the need for replacement surgeries and enhancing patient safety and comfort. Modern pacemakers with lithium batteries can last five to fifteen years, depending on usage and device type.

Lithium's high energy density, reliability and stability under varying conditions make it an ideal power source for life-sustaining medical devices. Its role in pacemaker innovation has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for millions worldwide.

At Albemarle, we are committed to transforming essential resources into critical ingredients for health, mobility, energy and connectivity. We take pride in our contribution to the lithium value chain, supporting advancements in medical technology that continue to save lives.

January Events

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