Aclara Partners with Virginia Tech for Rare Earths Pilot Plant

Aclara Resources Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Virginia Tech to operate a rare earths separation pilot plant. The facility will utilize Aclara's solvent extraction technology to produce high-purity rare earth elements. This collaboration is initiated through a non-binding MoU aimed at establishing a long-term academic and scientific alliance.

The pilot plant is designed based on Aclara's Carina Project in Brazil and will be operational at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center. It aims to integrate Aclara's U.S. and Brazil operations to produce elements like didymium, terbium, and dysprosium.

The partnership aims to secure a sustainable domestic supply chain for heavy rare earth elements while fostering innovation and talent development. Virginia Tech will benefit from access to Aclara's facilities, enhancing research and job opportunities in rare earths technology.