Critical mineral supply concerns the identification, extraction, processing, and recycling of materials essential for energy, defense, and high‑technology systems, with particular emphasis on rare earth elements, uranium, lithium, graphite, and related metals. The field examines geological resources, waste and urban mining pathways, nuclear fuel cycle by‑products, and advanced materials development alongside geopolitical dependencies, trade controls, and national strategies. It also addresses supply‑chain vulnerabilities and sustainability constraints that influence low‑carbon energy transitions and long‑term resource security.
Electronics & Semiconductors
You may not have heard of tantalum, but chances are you're holding some right now. It's an essential component in our cell phones and laptops, and currently, there's no effective substitute. Even if you plan to recycle your ...
Energy & Green Tech
The head of submarine mining pioneer The Metals Company told AFP he had "no doubt" the Canadian firm would be the first to extract coveted minerals from the deep seas, with help from Donald Trump.
Jun 6, 2025
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42
Engineering
Germany's dependence on these critical raw materials became apparent once again following the customs dispute in April, when China restricted exports of rare-earth elements and other elements to the U.S. and, consequently, ...
Jun 2, 2025
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29
Energy & Green Tech
When the computer or phone you're using right now blinks its last blink and you drop it off for recycling, do you know what happens?
May 28, 2025
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33
Business
Next-generation battery technologies play an important role in the energy and mobility transition. A research team from the Universities of Münster (Germany) and Cambridge (United Kingdom) and the Fraunhofer Research Institution ...
May 27, 2025
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65
Energy & Green Tech
President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders Friday to boost nuclear energy in the United States, including by rolling back regulatory processes on a still divisive technology.
May 23, 2025
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31
Energy & Green Tech
An Australian firm's production of a heavy rare earth, a first outside of China, is a "major milestone" in diversifying a critical supply chain dominated by Beijing, experts say.
May 23, 2025
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236
Business
A data center builder and a battery startup have agreed to deploy a novel type of energy storage for the first time at a U.S. data center. It's the latest example of tech companies' search for ways to manage the soaring energy ...
May 15, 2025
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31
Energy & Green Tech
Taiwan will turn off its last nuclear reactor on Saturday, fueling concerns over the self-ruled island's reliance on imported energy and vulnerability to a Chinese blockade.
May 15, 2025
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36
Engineering
As demand for rare earth elements increases, the United States is strengthening its domestic supply chain. Ana Inés Torres is working to identify economical processes that will minimize environmental impacts.
May 13, 2025
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