Reported U.S. Consumption Of Nickel, By Form

This table presents detailed data on the consumption of nickel in the United States, categorized by its various forms, including primary metal, ferronickel, oxide sinter, and secondary scrap. Understanding the distribution of nickel consumption by form is crucial for assessing the health and dynamics of industries reliant on this metal, such as stainless steel production, battery manufacturing, and alloy development. The data also provide insights into supply chain trends, recycling efficiency, and the balance between primary and secondary sources, all of which have significant implications for economic planning, resource management, and industrial policy.

In 2023, total reported U.S. consumption of nickel increased modestly to 107,000 metric tons in primary forms, up from 103,000 metric tons in 2022. Notably, primary metal consumption rose from 90,400 to 94,700 metric tons, indicating a strengthening demand for refined nickel products. The category labeled “Other,” which includes base-master alloys and nickel salts, saw a substantial increase from 1,570 metric tons to 12,100 metric tons, suggesting diversification or growth in niche nickel applications. However, consumption of secondary nickel scrap declined from 156,000 to 144,000 metric tons, reflecting a potential shift in recycling rates or scrap availability. Overall, the grand total consumption of nickel decreased slightly from 260,000 metric tons in 2022 to 251,000 metric tons in 2023, highlighting nuanced changes in the balance between primary and secondary nickel sources within the U.S. market.