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

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 minerals essential for the nation's economic strength and national security.