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In this October issue, explore a new interactive map of Kings Mountain's community history, learn about lithium's role in pacemakers, celebrate Albemarle's recent United Way recognition and more.
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October 2026

1968 Kings Mountain Mine

Preserving and Sharing Kings Mountain's History       

As part of historic preservation work associated with the proposed Kings Mountain Mine Project, Albemarle worked with the N.C. State Historic Preservation Office, the U.S. Department of Energy and other stakeholders to document and share important pieces of the community’s history. 
 
The collaboration included creating a permanent photographic record, digitizing historical documents and developing “Mines and Mills,” an interactive story map that explores Kings Mountain’s historic properties, community stories and connections to mining and industry. Hosted by the N.C. State Historic Preservation Office, the resource will remain publicly accessible for residents, researchers and future generations. 


Visit Mines and Mills Interactive Map

Lithium in our Lives: Pacemakers    


Lithium made a significant 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.

Employee Spotlight: Lindell and Wendell, Research and Technology Technicians 

Both technicians share their experiences working in research and technology at our Kings Mountain site and how their roles has evolved over the years. Their work helps improve the performance of batteries used in electric vehicles, electronics and other everyday technologies.


R&T Techs talk about their jobs


Past Events

US Department of Energy Visit


Audrey Robertson, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Energy, Office of Critical Minerals & Energy Innovation (CMEI) visited our mine site in September. During her visit, she announced the PROSPECT Planning Prize,  which challenges U.S. academic institutions to develop plans that would increase the number of graduates with degrees in critical-minerals-related fields within two years.

United Way Awards Recipient 

At the recent United Way of Cleveland County Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon, Albemarle received the Golden Eagle Award for Outstanding Corporate Support and the Outstanding Community Support Award.


We are grateful for this recognition and proud to support United Way of Cleveland County’s mission to unite programs and resources to meet the needs of our community. Thank you to United Way and the many organizations, partners and volunteers working together to strengthen Cleveland County and create a lasting impact.

Future Events 


N.C. Liver Mush Festival 


Celebrate this uniquely North Carolina tradition on Saturday, Oct. 17 in uptown Shelby. Enjoy a full day of live music from the Albemarle Main Stage and come by our booth to say hello.  


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