Researchers at Penn State and the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory recently published new research proving proof of concept for a much simpler extraction and separation methodology using a protein isolated from a bacteria called lanmodulin. The protein is bound to gelatinous microbeads made from seaweed that are suspended in a column. Then the liquid suspension of elements is poured through the column, and the protein grabs the rare earth elements while the rest of the liquid drains out. They are then able to change the variables surrounding the microbeads to allow the protein to release the rare earth material. Read more:
https://www.labroots.com/trending/ea...e-earth-metals
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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Penn State (PSU) and University of Arizona (UA) researchers are partnering with industry collaborator Western Rare Earths (WRE), U.S. subsidiary of American Rare Earths Limited, to use a naturally occurring protein to extract and purify rare earth elements (REEs) from abundant, domestic ore-based feedstocks and waste materials without harming the environment. It could offer a new avenue toward a more diversified and sustainable REE sector for the United States. Read more:
https://americanrareearths.com.au/wp...ts-2340486.pdf