ReElement Technologies Demonstrates Viability of Rare Earth Production from Carbon Waste
ReElement Technologies, a subsidiary of American Resources Corporation, has successfully demonstrated the technical and economic feasibility of producing rare earth elements (REEs) from controlled carbon waste streams. This breakthrough leverages proprietary refining processes and abundant feedstock to unlock value from waste materials, with processing capabilities planned at the company’s Kentucky Lithium facility.
Updated analyses of carbon waste-based deposits at American Resources’ Wyoming County Coal project in West Virginia reveal mixed rare earth oxide (MREO) concentrations at or above 500 parts per million (ppm). ReElement’s patented refining technology enables the separation of these oxides into high-purity REEs through localized preprocessing, marking a significant advancement in critical mineral recovery.
With an estimated 128 million tons of previously extracted waste material available for processing, the initial focus will be on the Wyoming County property, which holds approximately 8 million tons of feedstock. Mark Jensen, CEO of American Resources Corporation, emphasized the significance of this resource, stating, “Our controlled resources demonstrate sufficiently high concentrations and minimal extraction costs, representing a potential breakthrough for the industry.”
The project addresses growing demand for critical minerals, including aluminum oxide and silicon dioxide, essential for batteries and defense applications. ReElement’s platform aims to foster a robust supply chain independent of China, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional mining practices. Currently, over 90% of the world’s REEs are refined in China using methods associated with significant environmental drawbacks.
ReElement’s LAD (Ligand Assisted Displacement) chromatography technology plays a pivotal role in its refining process. This method offers cleaner and more efficient extraction and purification of REEs compared to traditional solvent-based systems. LAD’s modular design enables scalable production, localized processing, and reduced chemical and energy use. The system’s versatility allows it to handle multi-mineral feedstocks, including recycled materials.
The company’s advancements come at a critical time. Recent trade restrictions between the United States and China have heightened the importance of domestic critical mineral supply chains. ReElement’s approach addresses these challenges by offering environmentally sustainable solutions for rare earth and critical mineral refining.
ReElement has also announced daily production of ultra-pure rare earth oxides and battery-grade lithium carbonate at its facilities. The development of its Marion, Indiana, “super-site”—set to become the largest rare earth and lithium refining facility in the U.S.—further solidifies its position as a leader in the field.
