CMI researchers from FIPR Institute, Florida Polytechnic University, Rutgers University, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Florida International University conducted the activity for this highlight.
Innovation
- REE recovery integrated with mass production of alternate fertilizers and cement ingredients with CO2 sequestration
- Low-carbon production of cement and concrete
- Smart application of physical separation methods
Achievement
- Characterized 30+ core samples from a PG stack and two barres of PG samples from different plants
- Discovered that about 40% REE and 55% Ra-226 concentrated in ≤25-micron fraction and the 500x145 micron fraction containing low Ra-226 nearly meeting regulation limit
Significance and Impact
- Discovering new opportunities for recovery of the REE from phosphate mining waste including removing Ra and purifying PG
- Reducing costs for recovering critical elements
Hub Target Addressed
Diversify and expand the supply of materials in the appropriate quantities needed for the clean energy transition
