Monday, September 21, 2026
Science

Q&A: Tiny spores for a big critical minerals challenge

Scientists at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) are exploring how durable, customizable bacterial spores could capture rare earth elements (REE) from acid mine drainage and other metal-containing waste streams. The project supports new methods of sourcing critical...

Q&A: Tiny spores for a big critical minerals challenge
Image: Phys.org
Scientists at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) are exploring how durable, customizable bacterial spores could capture rare earth elements (REE) from acid mine drainage and other metal-containing waste streams. The project supports new methods of sourcing critical minerals essential for the nation's economic strength and national security.

Originally published at Phys.org

The Morning Briefing

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Be the first to receive the latest news, market analysis and updates — delivered straight to your inbox.