Critical Mineral Extraction

University researchers are aiding the development of critical minerals extraction techniques from primary ores and mine waste products, including tailings, coal ash, and produced waters. Areas of active research include gallium, germanium, and indium recovery from copper mine waste; lithium recovery from produced waters; and rare earth element extraction from coal ash and bauxite residue.

Rare Earth Elements Podcast: The Rare Earth Elements Podcast is a production of the Bureau of Economic Geology, The Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas at Austin in partnership with the U. S. Department of Energy. Hosted by Bridget Scanlon, this podcast discusses rare earth element feedstocks with experts from academia, industry, and government. Discussions include a variety of potential feedstocks, particularly waste materials and innovations in processing technologies to improve rare earth element supply chains in the US.