Strategic all-stock transaction values Blackion at approximately $13.2 million based on a $275 million pre-money valuation of Electrified Materials Corporation

Acquisition adds experienced management, commercial feedstock origination, battery lifecycle management and customer relationships while accelerating EMCO's growing platform

Combination strengthens EMCO's ability to connect battery feedstocks, processing and advanced refining through ReElement Technologies and other strategic partners

FISHERS, IN / ACCESS Newswire / September 21, 2026 / American Resources Corporation (NASDAQ:AREC) ("American Resources" or the "Company") today announced that its majority-owned subsidiary, Electrified Materials Corporation ("EMCO"), has entered into a binding Letter of Intent ("LOI") to acquire 100% of the outstanding equity interests of Blackion LLC ("Blackion") in an all-stock transaction.

Blackion is a lithium-ion battery lifecycle and critical materials solutions provider with operations and strategic relationships across the United States and international markets. The company brings complementary capabilities in feedstock origination, reverse logistics, battery lifecycle management, material recovery and commercialization, traceability, and closed-loop supply-chain solutions.

Under the terms of the LOI, the transaction values Blackion at approximately $13.2 million, with the consideration consisting of EMCO common stock valued based on an agreed $275 million pre-money valuation of EMCO. The proposed transaction is subject to the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements, customary closing conditions and any required corporate, regulatory or other approvals.

The consideration is structured to align the Blackion team with the long-term success of the combined platform. Fifty percent will be issued at closing, with an additional 25% scheduled to be issued after 12 months and the remaining 25% after 24 months, subject to continued strategic alignment and mutually agreed integration and participation objectives.