Athanasios K. Karamalidis, assistant professor of environmental systems engineering, focuses on reimagining
the approach in processing, separation, and recovery of critical elements using above ground mining (e.g. industrial waste) with his research.
His new book, Rare Earth Elements: Sustainable Recovery, Processing, and Purification, explores the modern methods and technologies in use around the globe to recover, process, and purify rare earths through the prism of sustainability.
Rare earth elements (REEs) are found in most of the technologies we use, from computers to clean energy.
Current projections indicate that REE demand will increase by three to seven times the existing demand in the next couple of decades. In that time, Karamalidis expects rare earths will be recovered from a wider range of sources than at present—including from more countries, more mineralogical forms, more waste
streams, and end-of-life products.
“We are in the midst of energy expansion, which will require more of these elements in the future,” Karamalidis said. “Developing new technologies, treatments, and methods that address the critical challenges of our times, lessen the impact of existing production, or increase the creative use of waste is essential. Really, these approaches could be viewed as part of the material circularity of the future.”
According to Karamalidis, cataloging all the new and novel technologies being developed for his second book was rewarding.
“I have to admit that I have experienced various processes in writing books,” Karamalidis said. “My first book was characterized by very long hours of researching, modeling, drafting, and editing, while for this one, I focused more on coordination of the various teams and technologies. I feel excited, and relieved, knowing we managed to capture and showcase very interesting technologies.”
Karamalidis hopes the book, like his teaching, will help train the next generation of independent thinkers to form new approaches and push boundaries.
“Our research laboratories are the cornerstone of the next generation workforce,” Karamalidis said. “The community we build and collaborations we promote, provide the necessary freedom to explore new scientific ideas and create an environment for students, and faculty, to realize their aspirations.”