MITRE and Montana State University are collaborating on research to reduce US dependence on Chinese sources for rare earth elements in quantum technology applications. The partnership aims to pioneer advances in material science necessary to advance quantum applications, focusing on identifying domestic alternatives to rare earth elements such as holmium copper, which is currently primarily available from China.
According to Alex Philp, senior principal at MITRE Public Sector, successfully identifying a domestic alternative could foster innovation in advanced manufacturing and address US critical supply chain challenges. Alison Harmon, vice president of research and economic development at Montana State University, notes that the partnership aligns with the university’s research priorities and creates opportunities to contribute to America’s national and economic security.
The collaboration will utilize artificial intelligence and density functional theory to develop a catalog of alternative materials for quantum applications, including those used in cryocoolers for quantum computers and sensors.
Rare Earth Minerals and Quantum Research
The collaboration between MITRE and Montana State University (MSU) aims to accelerate advances in rare earth minerals, which are crucial for developing quantum technology applications. Rare earth elements, such as holmium copper, are used in cryocoolers that cool quantum computers and sensors. However, the primary source of these elements is China, which poses a risk to the U.S. supply chain. The partnership between MITRE and MSU seeks to identify alternative domestic sources for these rare earth elements, reducing U.S. dependence on Chinese sources.
The research collaboration also focuses on pioneering advances in material science necessary to advance quantum applications. This involves developing a catalog of alternative, highly functional materials for quantum applications using artificial intelligence and density functional theory. Density functional theory is a method used in physics and chemistry to predict how atoms and molecules behave by focusing on the density of electrons rather than tracking each electron individually. By applying this approach, researchers can identify new materials with similar properties to rare earth elements, potentially reducing the reliance on imported materials.
The partnership between MITRE and MSU also extends to identifying employment opportunities in the technology field for MSU students. This includes exploring ways to enhance technology employment opportunities at MITRE as well as federal government agencies in fields such as cybersecurity. The effort will involve identifying skills critical to government agencies, providing internships, mentors, and guest speakers at MSU. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, the partnership aims to develop a skilled workforce that can contribute to the advancement of quantum technology.
The collaboration between MITRE and MSU is part of a broader effort to address U.S. critical supply chain challenges and leverage government investment in regional technology and innovation hubs for economic development. Successfully identifying domestic alternatives for rare earth elements used in quantum research could foster innovation in advanced manufacturing, addressing U.S. critical supply chain challenges and promoting economic growth.
Rare Earth Elements and Quantum Technology
Rare earth elements are a group of 17 metallic elements with unique properties that make them essential for various technological applications, including quantum technology. These elements are used in a range of devices, from smartphones and laptops to medical equipment and renewable energy technologies. In the context of quantum technology, rare earth elements such as holmium copper are used in cryocoolers, which are necessary for cooling quantum computers and sensors to extremely low temperatures.
The use of rare earth elements in quantum technology is critical due to their unique properties, such as high magnetic susceptibility and low thermal conductivity. These properties enable the creation of ultra-cold temperatures, which are essential for the operation of quantum devices. However, the reliance on imported rare earth elements poses a risk to the U.S. supply chain, highlighting the need for alternative domestic sources.
The development of alternative materials with similar properties to rare earth elements is an active area of research. Researchers are exploring various approaches, including the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to identify new materials with desired properties. Density functional theory is also being applied to predict the behavior of atoms and molecules, enabling the identification of potential alternative materials.
The discovery of new materials with similar properties to rare earth elements could have significant implications for the development of quantum technology. It could enable the creation of more efficient and compact devices, reducing the reliance on imported materials and promoting economic growth. Furthermore, the development of alternative materials could also lead to breakthroughs in other technological areas, such as energy storage and conversion.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The partnership between MITRE and MSU is a prime example of collaboration between academia and industry, aiming to accelerate advances in rare earth minerals and quantum technology. The agreement signed between the two organizations outlines a range of collaborative activities, including joint research, employment opportunities for MSU students, and expansion of collaboration around the annual Critical Resource Summit.
The partnership also involves broadening engagement with other stakeholders, including government agencies and industry partners. By fostering collaboration between different sectors, the partnership aims to leverage expertise and resources, promoting innovation and economic growth. The involvement of government agencies is critical, as it enables the development of policies and regulations that support the advancement of quantum technology.
The collaboration between MITRE and MSU also highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving technological innovation. By working together, academia and industry can identify common goals and develop strategies to achieve them. Public-private partnerships can provide access to funding, expertise, and resources, enabling the development of new technologies and promoting economic growth.
Economic and Social Implications
The collaboration between MITRE and MSU has significant economic and social implications. The development of alternative materials with similar properties to rare earth elements could lead to breakthroughs in various technological areas, promoting innovation and economic growth. The creation of new industries and job opportunities could also have a positive impact on local communities, contributing to regional economic development.
The partnership between MITRE and MSU also highlights the importance of investing in education and workforce development. By providing employment opportunities for MSU students, the partnership aims to develop a skilled workforce that can contribute to the advancement of quantum technology. This investment in human capital is critical, as it enables the development of a workforce with the necessary skills to drive technological innovation.
The collaboration between MITRE and MSU also has broader social implications, as it contributes to the development of technologies that can address global challenges such as climate change and energy security. The advancement of quantum technology could lead to breakthroughs in areas such as energy storage and conversion, enabling the creation of more efficient and sustainable energy systems.
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