2024 Energy Xchange Seminar Series

Please join us on March 28 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the EMS Energy Institute (C213 Coal Utilization Lab) for our 2024 Energy Xchange Seminar Series. This presentation will feature Sarma Pisupati, Professor of Energy and Mineral Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Director of the Center for Critical Minerals (C²M), with his presentation titled, "Mineral Security Challenges in Meeting the Goal of Net-Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050". This event is free and parking is available at the Institute at 4 p.m. 

Abstract:

With global dependency on fossil fuels still at 80%, carbon-neutral/low-carbon power generation utilizing nuclear batteries (micro nuclear reactors), solar, wind, green--hydrogen, and biomass, and increased EV usage for transportation are crucial to achieving this target. Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) are other vital requirements to accomplish the goal. These sustainable energy options, such as solar, wind, and energy storage (batteries), come with a steep increase in the associated demand for some rare earth and critical elements. China accounts for 84% of mined supply and 100% of refined production. While obtaining these minerals from primary domestic mineral deposits is crucial for sustainable energy security, secondary sources, including byproducts of coal mining and other energy-based waste products, are equally vital to developing a reliable supply chain. This presentation will discuss ongoing efforts at Penn State in multi-metal extraction from secondary sources and the need for global collaborations to reduce import reliance from China.