CMI researchers from Florida Industrial and Phosphate Research Institute (FIPR Institute) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight.
Innovation
Co-production of REE, phosphate, and elemental P from phosphoric acid sludge.
Achievement
- Nearly 100% recovery of high-value elemental P from pre-concentrated phosphoric acid evaporator sludge.
- High (>93%) REE leaching recovery from the solid residues.
- Purified and more valuable phosphoric acid centrifuge stream returned to industry.
Significance and Impact
- Improves the economics for REE recovery from a significant REE resource
- Potential for >1000 tpa of REEs from domestic mine tailings
- Produces REEs with over 50% HREE and Y
- Applicable to different phosphate-containing REE streams
- Potential to replace current technology, attractive enhancement for industry
- Accelerates commercialization of REE production from the sludge
- Positive implications for environmental justice related to waste from phosphoric acid production
Hub Goal Addressed
Unlocking unconventional resources. Recovery and conversion into high value end products.