Cost-Effective Rare Earth Element Recovery using CO2 Ligand
ID# 2019-4915
Technology Summary
The inventor has developed a process that uses CO2 in water as a ligand for extraction of rare earth elements (REEs) from waste streams, specifically fly ash and acid mine drainage (AMD). The process shifts the REE precipitation point to pH 5. This makes the process more cost effective, as the current process requires the pH be raised to 10 at a significant cost. By keeping the pH low, the remaining water after treatment can also be discharged back into the environment.
Application & Market Utility
Rare earth elements (REE) are in high demand for computers, batteries, cell phones, fluorescent lighting, defense applications, and healthcare innovations. Currently, the US imports most of its REEs from China, but a domestic source would be preferred, and our waste streams have tons of untapped potential. The concentrations of REEs are higher than in commercial mines and it’s more economical to get it directly from the water.
Next Steps
Procuring permissions to test on more waste ponds in the Pennsylvania area. Seeking licensing opportunities.