exit2dos t1_jajqr4x wrote on March 1, 2023 at 10:41 PM

Reply to comment by crackpipecardozo in German scientists show a commercially feasible method for cyanobacteria to extract 17 rare earth elements from low-concentration sources. Currently, most of the world's supply of these elements is mined in China. by lughnasadh

I believe they are talking about the Brine slurry, just nameing it 'wastewater' for layman understanding.

exit2dos t1_jai62fj wrote on March 1, 2023 at 4:45 PM

Reply to comment by Regolithic_Tiger in German scientists show a commercially feasible method for cyanobacteria to extract 17 rare earth elements from low-concentration sources. Currently, most of the world's supply of these elements is mined in China. by lughnasadh

Absolutely ! The more the wastewater and tailings can be processed the less harmful they should (theoretically) become.

Settling Ponds are a wealth of resources, it is just unknown how & therefore unfeasable to process a lot of the that waste.

exit2dos t1_jai5ew1 wrote on March 1, 2023 at 4:41 PM

Reply to comment by fauxbeauceron in German scientists show a commercially feasible method for cyanobacteria to extract 17 rare earth elements from low-concentration sources. Currently, most of the world's supply of these elements is mined in China. by lughnasadh

I would think they would need caves to grow in, with the REE's exposed on (or near) the loose exposed surface. Mushrooms dont have roots like trees. I am unsure if the wanted REE's would be considered nutrients to a plant or mushroom. (after-thought; Some REE's definatly not as they are toxic and/or (mildly) radioactive).

exit2dos t1_jahit3q wrote on March 1, 2023 at 2:08 PM

Reply to comment by fauxbeauceron in German scientists show a commercially feasible method for cyanobacteria to extract 17 rare earth elements from low-concentration sources. Currently, most of the world's supply of these elements is mined in China. by lughnasadh

> alternative to mining

This will not negate the need to initially mine the REE's. The 'wastewater' they are talking about it wastewater from mining.

exit2dos t1_jahh9ie wrote on March 1, 2023 at 1:56 PM

Reply to comment by commentist in German scientists show a commercially feasible method for cyanobacteria to extract 17 rare earth elements from low-concentration sources. Currently, most of the world's supply of these elements is mined in China. by lughnasadh

It could if it had the refinery capabilities. China is set to continue enjoying an 80% share of the global refining of the vital metals, but tech like this may change that dynamic, quicker than China hopes. The US, UK and Canada are all in process of constructing facilities, that I am aware of, but likely more.