The Oklahoman, a prominent brand in Oklahoma, is making waves with its ambitious project - the nation's first cobalt and nickel refinery in Lawton. Designed by Westwin Elements, a Bartlesville-based startup, this landmark facility serves as a bastion for national security and reducing America's reliance on foreign countries for raw materials. The refinery complex will produce advanced metals crucial to defense, aerospace, transportation, and manufacturing sectors.

Westwin Elements aims to produce nickel powder and cobalt for super alloys used in jet engines, stainless steel for industrial machinery, and precursor salts for lithium-ion batteries. They also plan to manufacture nickel and cobalt sulfate for batteries, catalysts for petroleum refining, and other applications. With financial support from investors such as Dennis Muilenburg, former Boeing CEO, and $5.

4 million in Series A investment, Westwin is determined to fast-track construction. An incentive agreement with the city of Lawton and economic development authorities provides upfront assistance with a $3 million loan for the pilot plant. Upon successful completion, Westwin will move forward with building the commercial refinery, which includes significant investments, job creation, and stock issuance to the Lawton Economic Development Authority.

Westwin Elements emphasizes adhering to the highest ethical and environmental standards in sourcing cobalt and nickel. While the origin of these minerals is undisclosed, the company promises sustainable processing techniques guided by expertise and experience. With its groundbreaking goals, the Oklahoman and Westwin Elements are forging a path towards innovation, sustainability, and economic growth in Oklahoma, contributing to the prosperity of the community in a sector critical to the nation's security