Value Proposition
· Enables sustainable extraction and benefaction of critical elements from low-grade ores using renewable electricity-driven electrosynthesis of acid and base
· Achieves carbon-negative mining by capturing 628.6 kg of CO2 per metric ton of processed ore
· Eliminates high-temperature thermochemical processing and reduces hazardous chemical waste
Unmet Need
· There is a growing need to expand domestic supplies of critical minerals and materials. However, traditional mineral benefaction, extraction, and ore processing are energy- and emissions-intensive activities. Given the rising demand and transition towards clean and sustainable technologies, there exists a strong need for developing a carbon-negative, energy efficient solution that can sustainably extract critical elements from unconventional feedstocks while significantly reducing emissions.
Technology Description
· Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a sustainable extraction and benefaction method for critical elements (Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, etc.) from low-grade ores (gangue minerals like olivine, brucite, serpentine, and chalcopyrite). This method utilizes renewable electricity for electrosynthesis-driven salt splitting, producing acid for metal extraction and base for capturing carbon dioxide from the air. Additionally, the process includes a closed-loop recycling system for byproducts, minimizing waste and reducing the carbon footprint of mineral beneficiation.
Stage of Development
· The technology is currently at an early stage of development. Researchers have completed a preliminary techno-economic analysis (TEA) for the acid-base electrosynthesis and NaOH usage; however, the researchers are yet to complete the TEA the mineral benefaction process. At the time of disclosure, the technology was in preparation for a full proposal to the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) for further development.
Data Availability
· Data available upon request.
Publication
N/A
