TECHNOLOGY LICENSING OPPORTUNITY: Protein-Based Rare Earth Recovery via Condensation

The opportunity is for a technology licensing agreement for a protein-based rare earth recovery system. The system uses a bio-inspired protein to capture and concentrate rare earth elements from complex liquid mixtures. The technology has various applications, including critical minerals recovery, mining and mineral processing, waste recycling, environmental remediation, and biomanufacturing and bioseparation. The system is genetically modular, allowing for adaptation with different Lanmodulin derivatives. The advantages of this technology include the use of a bio-based protein system, concentration of rare earth elements, enablement of separation after droplet formation, avoidance of protein immobilization, and support for modular adaptation. Some key points to consider: • The technology is designed to reduce reliance on harsher processing methods and support more resilient supply chains for critical materials. • The system can be adapted with different Lanmodulin derivatives to support selective capture needs across varied feedstocks. • The technology has a development status of TRL 3 and has a U.S. patent pending. • Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a wide range of cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that may provide companies with a competitive edge in the market.