In a significant move to future-proof the industrial application of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), Johnson Matthey (JM), Sibanye-Stillwater, and Valterra Platinum have announced a new multi-million-pound collaboration. Launched in February 2026, this multi-year programme is designed to accelerate the journey of PGM-based technologies from the research lab to full-scale commercialisation.
Diversifying Beyond the Exhaust Pipe
Currently, the PGM market is heavily reliant on a single sector: 60% of the global supply is utilized in catalytic converters for internal combustion engines. This new partnership seeks to break that dependency by broadening applications far beyond traditional emissions control.
The collaboration will focus on several high-growth sectors, including:
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Clean Hydrogen: Developing technologies for the green energy transition.
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Advanced Materials: Creating new electronic materials and high-performance alloys.
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Enhanced Emissions Tech: Improving detection and reduction for both mobile and stationary sources.
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The “Basket” Approach: Ensuring a better supply and demand balance across the entire range of PGMs.
A Powerhouse Partnership
The initiative combines the strengths of three industry giants to create a “unique ecosystem” for innovation.
| Partner | Key Contribution |
| Johnson Matthey |
World-class R&D and expertise in sustainable chemistry and advanced metals. |
| Sibanye-Stillwater |
A top-tier primary producer of platinum, palladium, and rhodium, with significant recycling and battery metal operations. |
| Valterra Platinum |
An integrated producer operating world-class mines and efficient processing assets in South Africa and Zimbabwe. |
Driving the Next Industrial Wave
The leadership of the three organizations emphasized that this is about more than just market share; it is about global sustainability and economic progress. Liz Rowsell, CTO at Johnson Matthey, noted that PGMs are critical to the modern economy, making it vital to find ambitious new uses for these “incredible metals”.
By leveraging the exceptional performance and durability of PGMs—alongside their established circular supply chains—the partners aim to define the next era of industrial demand. The collaboration is expected to grow, with additional partners likely to join in the coming months.