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Building a Resilient U.S. Supply Chain for Critical Materials & Mining Infrastructure

Posted by Ashley Beyer

mine site geocell installation

Written by: JP George, Business Manager

The U.S. Dept of Energy (DOE) classifies critical materials and minerals based on their importance to energy and supply risk. With the new U.S. administration taking office in January 2025, there has been a renewed effort to focus on strengthening the supply of these resources both domestically and abroad.

Strengthening Domestic Supply

Bipartisan efforts continue to bolster domestic mineral production through legislative actions, such as the proposed Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2025 and revisions to the Energy Act of 2020. The National Mining Association (NMA) supports these measures, emphasizing the need for U.S. production over reliance on foreign sources.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) 2025 Mineral Commodity Summaries, the U.S. remains import-reliant for many critical minerals, with China controlling production for over two-thirds of these resources. NMA President & CEO Rich Nolan states, “We could be producing most of these minerals here at home—under world-leading environmental, labor and safety standards”.

Projects like Perpetua Resources’ Idaho gold project could supply up to 35% of the U.S. annual demand for antimony, demonstrating the potential for revitalized domestic mining.

Innovations in Mining & Mineral Processing

Technological advancements are driving sustainable mining operations:

  • South32 Hermosa Project and the Battery Materials Development Grant are funding domestic manganese production for EV battery materials.
  • Argonne National Lab is developing methods to make more batteries with fewer materials, reducing reliance on foreign sources. Jeff Spangenberger from Argonne hopes to make “more efficient use of critical materials in domestic battery supply chains so that the U.S. can rely less on other countries to achieve its clean energy goals”.
  • The World Economic Forum’s Energy Transition Innovations report highlights groundbreaking technologies such as:
  • The Helios Cycle: A closed-loop sodium system that eliminates CO2
  • Kofiln’s Exothermic Copper Processing: A method that significantly reduces SO2

Innovative Soil Stabilization for Mining Operations

close up of partially infilled geocells

Beyond advancements in mineral extraction, innovations in soil stabilization are enhancing efficiency and safety in the mining industry. The GEOWEB geocells provide three-dimensional confinement and strengthening of infill, delivering:

  • increased speed of operation,
  • lower maintenance,
  • safer installation, and
  • a lower total cost of ownership.

Developed by Presto Geosystems, the original inventors of geocell technology, the GEOWEB geocells have been made in the USA for over 45 years. Their proven applications in the mining sector include:

  • Haul Roads & Site Access Roads – Providing stability over soft ground, both above and below grade.
  • Stormwater Containment & Channel Armoring – Controlling and containing runoff while protecting environmental barriers.
  • Geomembrane Protection – Reinforcing basins, tailings storage, and heap leach pads.
  • Mine Slope & Site Reclamation – Stabilization slopes for long-term restoration.

GEOWEB Geocells Proven Performance in Large-Scale Mining Applications

Backed by Engineering & Research Excellence

As a leader in geocell technology, Presto Geosystems integrates over 40 years of accredited research and testing to ensure structural integrity and cost-effective solutions. Our in-house engineering team applies research findings to develop practical, real-world applications for the mining industry.

Get a Free Project Evaluation

Are you looking for a reliable, long-term stabilization solution for your mining operation? Our Free Project Evaluation service offers expert recommendations tailored to your specific needs.