Recombinant Protein for Rare Earth Element Binding

Executive Summary

Rare earth elements (REEs) are essential materials used in advanced technologies such as electronics, process catalysts, magnets, batteries and MRI contrast agents. Although used in small quantities for each application, they end up in surface water and soil during mining, processing and waste disposal. This presents growing environmental concerns such as bioaccumulation in plants and animals and increasing levels in fresh and drinking water supplies. MSU researchers have developed a new bio-based technology that selectively binds to REEs, permitting them to be sequestered, removed and recycled as needed.

Description of Technology

This invention is recombinant protein, coined GLAMOUR, that possesses both a REE binding and fluorescent domain. GLAMOUR can bind to a variety of lanthanides. Upon exposure to light, bound GLAMOUR emits green light and allows the detection of the bound REE.

Benefits

Binds to a variety of rare earth elements
Small activation and relaxation times lead to essentially instantaneous detection times
Can detect very low levels of REEs (some experiments as low as 100 nanomolar)
Portable onsite detection of REEs. Simple detection upon light (camera, flashlight, etc.) exposure

Applications