Study Reveals US Mine Waste Contains Over 70 Critical Resources Including Lithium

A recent study published in the journal Science has highlighted the potential of mine waste in the United States, revealing that it contains over 70 critical resources, including lithium. The research, conducted by a team led by a professor from the Colorado School of Mines, focused on the waste generated from current mining operations across the nation.

The study indicates that the 54 active mines in the US have significant potential for recovering essential materials. For instance, the lithium found in these mine wastes could be enough to produce batteries for approximately 10 million electric vehicles in a single year. Additionally, manganese and other important minerals can also be extracted from the waste, which are crucial for the production of lithium-ion batteries, solar panels, and other technologies that contribute to the transition towards clean energy.

Currently, the majority of lithium processed in the US is imported from countries like Australia, Chile, and China, while cobalt primarily comes from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This reliance on imports has raised concerns regarding national and economic security, prompting political discussions around the need for a domestic supply of these critical resources. Legislative efforts, such as the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, have already begun to incentivize domestic production of essential minerals. Furthermore, a recent executive order aims to streamline the extraction of critical resources on federal lands, addressing the risks associated with dependence on foreign mineral production.

The findings of this study suggest that improving the recovery rates of these materials from mine waste could significantly decrease the US's reliance on imports. Even a modest recovery rate of just 1% could substantially reduce dependency for most elements, while a 4% recovery rate of lithium could completely offset current imports. This approach could allow existing mining companies to enhance their processes and incorporate additional recovery methods, providing a swift solution to bolster domestic supply.

Experts acknowledge that the concept of extracting valuable by-products from mining operations is not new. However, this research may contribute to a shift in perspective, encouraging a broader focus beyond the primary minerals sought after in mining activities. Understanding the economic viability of extracting additional resources from mine waste could lead to more sustainable mining practices.

While some minerals may be easier to extract than others, the ultimate decision will depend on economic factors. Mining companies are primarily driven by profitability, which will dictate whether it is feasible to pursue the recovery of these critical minerals from mine waste.