The problem with the breeder reactor plan is that you're producing a lot of impure Pu-239. So after the fuel rods have met their lifespan, you have to refine the nuclear waste product to remove the Pu-239. Pu-239 is also VERY easily made into a nuclear bomb so you then need to ...
It not only refines cobalt but also recycles it as a significant share of revenues. Umicore is also involved in cathode and battery materials production. Because Umicore is not a 'pureplay' mining company, it is somewhat less exposed to price volatility and supply issues. The company works ...