Fertilizer from coal a key part of North Dakota critical minerals processing plans

By: Jeff Beach

Outlets: North Dakota Monitor

Published: August 10, 2026

Words: 895

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 6 days ago

Body Text Preview

North Dakota’s abundant supply of lignite coal has been touted as a domestic source for critical minerals needed in magnets and electronics. But research at the University of North Dakota shows the potential for another lignite byproduct — fertilizer.

UND is negotiating a contract with the U.S. Department of Energy to expand its critical mineral refining to the first commercial-scale test site at the Falkirk coal mine near Underwood.

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us