August 19, 2026

Aclara Technologies Selected for DOE Federal Funding to Advance AI-Driven Heavy Rare Earth Processing

VTCRC tenant Aclara Technologies Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX:ARA), has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to receive federal funding under the Genesis Mission: Transforming Science and Energy with AI initiative.

This selection marks a major milestone for domestic critical minerals processing and highlights the groundbreaking research and development happening directly within our Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center community.

Driving AI Innovation in Heavy Rare Earth Processing

Aclara’s Phase I project, titled “AI-Enabled Process Optimization for Multi-Feed Rare Earth Separation,” was selected under the DOE’s challenge area focused on securing America’s critical minerals supply through extraction and processing technologies.

The initiative combines industrial expertise, national laboratory capabilities, and academic research through a tripartite collaboration among:

  • Aclara Technologies Inc.
  • Virginia Tech
  • Argonne National Laboratory

The project leverages operational data generated at Aclara’s rare earth separation pilot plant located at Virginia Tech. By combining this real-world data with advanced process simulation capabilities developed at Argonne National Laboratory, the team is building an AI-assisted “digital twin.” This digital platform will optimize complex rare earth solvent extraction circuits under dynamic operating conditions—improving process stability, increasing recovery rates and product purity, reducing required operator intervention, and accelerating the commercial scale-up of domestic rare earth separation technologies.

Strengthening the Americas’ Critical Minerals Supply Chain

Heavy rare earth elements are vital components in permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, defense applications, and advanced technology sectors. Successful Phase I projects under the Genesis Mission will demonstrate transformative AI-enabled scientific workflows, opening up the opportunity to advance to Phase II for additional federal funding.

By combining cutting-edge process engineering with artificial intelligence, Aclara continues to lead the way in building a secure, resilient, and technologically advanced rare earth supply chain across the Americas.

Want to learn more about this milestone? Read the full press release HERE.

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