Engineers from one of Australia’s leading universities have developed scalable technology that turns fly ash waste from coal-fired power stations into a rich source of all 17 rare earth elements.
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Australia’s coal-fired power stations generate millions of tonnes of fly ash each year. Monash University engineers have developed a breakthrough process that can recover more than 90% of the critical minerals contained in this waste product.
Dr Bennet Thomas and Professor Sankar Bhattacharya say the breakthrough could double Australia’s critical minerals supply without opening a single new mine.
“Australia’s coal-fired power stations produce millions of tonnes of fly ash annually – traditionally treated as waste. Our research shows this ash holds valuable rare earth metals essential for powering future technologies,” Prof Bhattacharyasaid.
“Our urban mining method can recover all 17 rare earth elements with over 90 per cent efficiency, providing a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional mining.”
Dr Thomas said, “Recovering rare earth elements from coal ash not only addresses a significant waste problem but also strengthens Australia’s supply chain resilience for critical materials.
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“With the right support, we can scale up this technology to create new regional jobs and help Australia lead the global transition to clean energy and advanced manufacturing.”
Read the full story at Monash Lens.
