The United States is facing a potential rare earth elements (REE) solution with the discovery of substantial amounts of these critical minerals in coal ash. Research led by the University of Texas at Austin suggests that accessible coal ash in the U.S. could contain as much as 11 million tons of REE, which is nearly eight times the amount currently held in domestic reserves.
The findings imply that burning coal can be a more efficient and cost-effective way to extract these essential minerals. However, it’s essential to note that the quality and quantity of REE in coal ash vary depending on its origin. For instance, Appalachian Basin coal ashes contain higher amounts of REE but have lower extraction rates than Powder River Basin coal.
This discovery has sparked interest among researchers and policymakers seeking alternative sources to reduce U.S. reliance on China for rare earth elements. With approximately 78 percent of the country’s imports coming from China in 2019, finding a more sustainable solution is crucial for national security and economic diversification.
A new approach to utilizing coal ash could not only help alleviate supply chain tensions but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and recovering resources. As one researcher noted, “this really exemplifies the ‘trash to treasure’ mantra, where we’re trying to close the cycle and use waste to recover resources while minimizing environmental impacts.”
Source: https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/news-publications/inside-supply-management-magazine/blog/2024/2024-12/supply-chain-news-roundup-a-potential-coal-ash-solution