CMI researchers at Idaho National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight
Achievement
- Ruby Nguyen joined the INL’s K-12 program to organize a STEM night at Jefferson Elementary School in Idaho as a celebration for the school’s second place in an e-waste collection contest.
- Nguyen led the hands-on demonstration using the CMI Critical Materials Toolkit, including a new activity for material separation using bird seed, and a magnet strength activities, one using copper tube and one creating an icosahedron structure.
Significance and Impact
Introduces foundational concepts in critical materials, recycling, and engineering to more than 300 students through interactive activities.
Hub Targets Addressed
- STEM Pipeline Development: Encourage early interest in critical‑materials science and technology, supporting CMI’s goal to “educate the workforce” and enhance the innovation pipeline.
- Connect K-12 students to CMI’s mission by providing hands-on learning experiences tied directly to material behavior and sustainability.
