Kolkata: Coal India subsidiary Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited (CMPDI) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Duke University, USA, to collaborate on critical minerals, sustainable mining and mineral recovery research.
The MoU will remain valid for five years from the date of signing. Under the agreement, both institutions will work together through scientific research, technical expertise and knowledge exchange to address emerging challenges in the mining and energy sectors.
The partnership will combine CMPDI’s mining and field expertise in India with Duke University’s research capabilities in mineral sciences, energy systems and sustainability.
Focus on Critical Minerals from Coal and Mining Waste
A major focus of the collaboration will be the identification and potential recovery of critical minerals from coal and mining-related secondary resources.
The research will cover resources such as:
- Overburden
- Coal rejects
- Fly ash
- Acid mine drainage
The institutions will study the recovery potential of Rare Earth Elements (REEs), lithium and graphite, along with advanced mineral testing, characterisation and recovery methods.
The collaboration will also focus on developing suitable methodologies and optimising processes for recovering valuable minerals from these resources.
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Duke University to Provide Research Expertise
Under the MoU, Duke University will contribute its expertise in advanced scientific research, mineral characterisation, methodology development and process optimisation.
The university will support research aimed at developing improved technologies and approaches for the sustainable recovery and utilisation of mineral resources.
CMPDI will provide field and technical support in India, including:
- Field operations
- Sample collection
- Technical data
- Institutional coordination
This cooperation will help connect Duke University’s research capabilities with practical mining applications in India.
Decarbonisation and Sustainable Mining
The partnership will not be limited to critical minerals. It will also cover several areas related to sustainable mining and cleaner energy technologies.
The key areas include:
- Low- and zero-carbon energy technologies
- Decarbonisation pathways
- Sustainable energy systems
- Mine repurposing
- Post-mining land use
- Methane monitoring, mitigation and abatement
The two institutions will also explore the potential for carbon credits associated with coal mining and abandoned mines.
Scientific Research and Knowledge Exchange
The five-year collaboration will promote joint work through scientific research, technical expertise and knowledge exchange.
The partnership is expected to create new opportunities in areas such as critical mineral recovery, sustainable mining and the sustainable utilisation of mineral resources.
It will also provide a platform for CMPDI and Duke University to work together on emerging technological and environmental challenges facing the mining and energy sectors.
Why the MoU Is Important for CMPDI
The agreement could help CMPDI expand its technical and consultancy capabilities into emerging areas beyond conventional coal-related services.
By bringing together CMPDI’s mining expertise and Duke University’s global research capabilities, the partnership could support the development of new technologies and research solutions for critical minerals and sustainable mining.
The collaboration is also expected to strengthen opportunities for technical innovation and sustainable utilisation of mineral resources in India.
About CMPDI
Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDI) is a Mini Ratna public sector enterprise and a wholly owned subsidiary of Coal India Limited. Headquartered in Ranchi, CMPDI provides consultancy and engineering services in coal and mineral exploration, mine planning, environmental management and sustainable mining. Alongside its core business, the company actively implements Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on skill development, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability and community welfare across India.
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