June 6, 2025 - The Ohio Department of Development this week announced $6 million in support for four projects aimed at building on Ohio’s legacy of innovation in the coal industry. 

The 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.

“Ohio’s coal industry has always been a fundamental part of our economy, and these projects are a reflection of how it can continue to power innovation in new and unexpected ways,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “From building materials to national defense, we’re helping redefine what’s possible with Ohio coal – and creating jobs, supporting new technologies, and securing a stronger future for our state in the process.” 

The grants announced today will help support projects that modernize the use of Ohio coal through advanced technologies and processes such as alternate uses for coal waste, the creation of high-performance carbon materials for defense applications, and even the conversion of coal into cost-effective aluminum alternatives for vehicle components. 

In total, $6,034,441 in grants will be allocated as follows: 

• CONSOL Innovations LLC (Franklin, Tuscarawas counties) will receive $2,000,000 to expand its manufacturing capabilities for coal plastic composite (CPC) decking using Ohio coal and coal waste. The project will establish the first commercial-scale extrusion line in Columbus to produce approximately 2.5 million linear feet of decking annually, advancing CPC as a sustainable building material. 

• MetalKraft Technologies, LLC (Athens County) 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. 

• PHNX Materials (Franklin, Adams counties) will receive $1,976,635 to use new technology to extract valuable materials from coal combustion byproducts. The goal is to convert waste into useful products like high-quality fly ash for concrete, gypsum, and fertilizer — creating jobs, reducing waste, and supporting sustainable construction.  

• Ohio University (Athens County) 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. 

Funding was open to municipal-, rural- and investor-owned utilities, non-profit and for-profit entities operating in Ohio, as well as educational and scientific institutions throughout the state. 

This round of funding was made possible with support from the Ohio General Assembly in the most recent capital budget. All awarded projects are required to be completed within either 12 or 24 months.? 

Those with detailed questions about a project should contact the entity receiving the grant. 

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio’s people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.