SMRTR Science & EngineeringMay 2, 2025Interesting Engineering

Rare earth element extraction breakthrough could boost US’ position in critical tech

SMRTR summary

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed artificial membrane channels that can selectively extract rare earth elements (REEs) with high efficiency. This breakthrough could revolutionize REE extraction, making it simpler and more sustainable. The technology, inspired by biological transport proteins, shows 40 times better selectivity than traditional methods and could help meet surging demand for REEs in modern and future technologies.

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