Tunable Electrochemical Pathway for High-Purity REMs and CMs

Abstract

This report details a comprehensive research initiative focused on developing a technical research plan for the efficient and sustainable production of rare earth elements (REEs) and critical materials (CMs) from coal-based resources, specifically lignite coal from the Williston Basin in North Dakota. The project’s methodology centers on the design and evaluation of a tunable electrochemical pathway (TEP), an innovative approach aimed at achieving high-purity rare earth oxides (REOs), rare earth salts (RES), and CMs. This research is crucial for addressing the growing demand for these materials in clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, and high-tech applications, while reducing the United States’ reliance on foreign supply chains. The project was structured into four key tasks, each designed to build upon the previous one and contribute to the overarching goal of developing a viable technical research plan.