To reduce that exposure, researchers at Texas A&M University are leading a federally funded push to develop scalable recovery methods that could shift the balance. With support from the Department of Energy and collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and several industry partners, they are focusing on a cleaner and more energy-efficient alternative to current extraction techniques.
The team’s solution—solid-phase extraction (SPE) using mesoporous carbon foams—is engineered to selectively isolate REEs from shredded and processed electronics. Unlike traditional methods, which rely heavily on solvents and generate high levels of waste, SPE requires less energy and fewer chemicals, creating a lower environmental impact and a clearer path to regulatory compliance.
This tech isn't just about cleaning up e-waste. It’s also about helping U.S. industries compete more effectively by reshoring parts of the supply chain that have historically been dominated by overseas suppliers.
For companies operating in renewable energy, defense, or consumer electronics, the ability to source REEs domestically offers tangible benefits. Stable access to materials like neodymium can improve cost forecasting, reduce lead times, and provide leverage in global markets.
Early commercial adopters of this tech could see improved profit margins through lower input costs and benefit from aligning with sustainability expectations—both from regulators and consumers. With environmental rules tightening, and ESG performance increasingly scrutinized, recovery methods that reduce waste while enabling domestic sourcing offer a strategic advantage.
Another key to the potential of this research is its industrial compatibility. Too often, academic innovations fall short in real-world application. But the Texas A&M team is prioritizing designs that can integrate into existing recycling and manufacturing infrastructure—making it easier for businesses to scale adoption without major system overhauls.
