Representative Ritter Applauds Grants Announced for Athens County to Support Innovation in Coal Technologies

State Representative Kevin Ritter (R-Marietta) today applauded the recent announcement by the Ohio Department of Development that Athens County will receive two grants in support of projects promoting innovation in the coal industry. 

According to the announcement, MetalKraft Technologies, LLC will receive $1,5000,000 to develop a new type of lightweight, conductive material made from coal-derived carbon and aluminum. This advanced composite could replace traditional aluminum in vehicle parts, offering cost savings, improved performance, and environmental benefits.  

Additionally, Ohio University will receive $557,806 to utilize Ohio coal to establish a domestic supply of high-performance carbon materials for use in national defense applications — using proprietary partner Americarbon’s Eco-Pitch process.  

“These grants demonstrate the great things happening in Athens around the coal technology space and how the region remains an innovative leader in the coal industry,” said Rep. Ritter. 

According to the Department of Development, grant funding comes from the Ohio Coal Research and Development Program, which was established to invest in the development and implementation of technologies designed to use Ohio’s vast coal reserves in a way that promotes economic growth and job creation across the state.¿

This round of funding for the grants was made possible through the Ohio General Assembly and the most recent capital budget.