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: 860

Last Updated: 1 week ago

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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.

Dan Laudal, executive director …

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