STRP

This project, led by Dr. TeYu Chien of the University of Wyoming, will develop the foundational scientific and engineering basis for the scalable conversion of metallurgical coal into high-purity polycrystalline nano-graphite using a patented microwave-assisted plasma system. The proposed research will move this concept from Technology Readiness Level TRL 2 to TRL 3, or early TLR 4 by the end of the 12-month period. The focus will be on validating the physical principles, energy interactions, and plasma-material dynamics necessary for carbon phase transformation under lab-scale microwave plasma conditions. Initial experiments will analyze raw feedstocks, plasma process parameters, graphite yield quality, and thermodynamic inputs using small-batch laboratory tools. Results will inform material compatibility, reaction kinetics, and the feasibility of scaling to a prototype in future phases. This early-stage research is critical to unlocking a sustainable domestic source of synthetic graphite, offering energy savings of up to 85% over conventional methods and minimizing toxic chemical waste. If successful, the results will lay the groundwork for further federal R&D funding and industrial partnerships in years two and three. The innovation directly supports national interests in battery material supply chains and circular carbon technologies.