Technology Licensing Opportunity: Room-Temperature Electrochemical Metallization of Rare Earth Elements

Battelle Energy Alliance, on behalf of the Department of Energy, is offering a technology licensing opportunity for a room-temperature electrochemical metallization process for Rare Earth Elements (REEs). This invention provides a low-energy, low-hazard alternative to conventional molten-salt electrolysis by utilizing anhydrous electrolytes and Lewis acid-base coordination to enable REE reduction at ambient temperatures. The system integrates electrodeposition and in-situ electrorefining to produce metallic REEs such as neodymium, samarium, dysprosium, and terbium without the toxic hydrofluoric gas emissions or extreme heat requirements typically associated with legacy processes. This opportunity is identified as solicitation number BA-1456 and is categorized under NAICS 331492, Secondary Smelting, Refining, and Alloying of Nonferrous Metal (except Copper and Aluminum), and PSC AG22, Energy R&D Services; Energy Conservation; Applied Research.

The technology addresses environmental and regulatory barriers to domestic REE production by eliminating fluoride salt waste and reducing energy consumption. Market applications for the process include the production of permanent magnets for electric vehicle motors and wind turbines, defense-related communication and satellite components, lightweight aerospace alloys, and advanced battery chemistries. There are no procurement, grants, or funding opportunities associated with this special notice.

Responses regarding this licensing opportunity are due by June 15, 2026. The place of performance is Idaho Falls, Idaho, and the primary point of contact is Javier Martinez. This notice was published on September 15, 2025, and last updated on April 20, 2026. There are no attachments associated with this announcement.