As the world transitions to green energy systems, the projected demand for critical minerals such as rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt and copper is orders of magnitude higher than current demand. Explosives, propellants and pyrotechnics are increasingly relevant to industry and national defense.

S&T faculty and students are engaged in all aspects of minerals and explosives research to ensure the mines of the future are safe and ecological, and the use of energetic materials is safe and effective.