TECHNOLOGY SUMMARY
Ascension, a University of Oxford spin-out, has developed a clean, subsurface process to extract rare earth elements from volcanic rocks using geothermal heat. This method replaces traditional mining, cutting cost and environmental impact while securing new supplies of critical materials for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and advanced defense systems.
AREA/MATURITY/AWARDS
Primary Application Area: Space, Defense, Mobility
Technology Development Status: Prototype
Technology Readiness Level: TRL 4
Vetted Programs/Awards: Innovate UK CLIMATES grant: Feasibility study of Ascension Island as a UK source of rare earth earth elements
MARKET KEYWORDS
Market Keywords: Rare earth elements, critical minerals, defense supply