Coal producer Ramaco Resources has acquired a US Department of Energy patent for technology converting coal to carbon nanosheets, also known as graphene.
Ramaco intends to use the patent, which was initially held by the Department of Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), to develop the technology for commercial use.
Carbon nanosheets are atomically thin pieces of carbon and can be used in strengthening composite materials as well as improving the performance of battery electrodes.
With the patent "we will be able to pursue a variety of higher value commercial applications of coal," said Ramaco chief executive officer Randall Atkins. "This specific technology will help us focus on innovations for batteries applications, building and construction materials and a wide range of electronic devices."
The nanosheets also may be a lab-created alternative to graphite, which China this month announced restrictions on its export of the material, Ramaco said.
The company plans to continue working with NETL on a variety of carbon products made from coal and coal-related mining waste. They signed a cooperative research and development agreement to discover new uses for coal in 2018. Ramaco did not disclose any specific details on time lines or next steps planned for the development of its coal-to-products technology.
Ramaco operates a research and pilot project facility in Sheridan, Wyoming, as well as three active mining complexes in West Virginia. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to start development of its Brook coal mine in Wyoming to produce rare earths and a carbon ore used in the manufacture of activated carbon fiber. The coal company also plans to work with the US Department of Energy on the possibility of vertical development of rare earth magnet production.
