From wastes to resources: WVU expands rare earth research to help strengthen America’s domestic critical minerals supply

A decade ago, West Virginia University researchers were among the first to find rare earth elements in acid mine drainage seeping from retired coal mines. Now, the University is ready to expand that work to help secure a domestic supply of the critical materials essential to modern technology, enhancing national security interests and economic innovation.

To support these efforts, the University is launching the WVU Rare Earth Elements Initiative, or WVU REE. The initiative unites researchers who focus on rare earths and critical minerals as they explore a growing range of U.S. feedstocks. In tandem, WVU has established the for-profit startup, Mission Critical Materials, to commercialize 10 years of the University’s proven AMDREE technology.

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