S.A.F.E. Structure Designs Launches Gallium Recovery Pilot

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 8, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- S.A.F.E. Structure Designs LLC, a Nevada-based defense engineering and manufacturing company, has embarked on a pilot project to recover gallium from domestic feedstocks, including gold-mine tailings. The initiative, which received tasking from the United States Army Corps of Engineers, aims to bridge the gap between laboratory-proven technology and practical field application, thereby bolstering America's critical minerals supply chain.

The project, led by President and CEO Johnny Buscema, combines manufacturing and systems integration to develop modular critical minerals recovery equipment. The pilot will focus on demonstrating gallium recovery from domestic feedstocks, laying the groundwork for future deployment and production. This effort is part of a broader strategy to transition existing materials processing within the United States and to develop a technical workforce capable of supporting future operations.

Support for the initiative comes from various quarters. The Governor's Office of Economic Development in Nevada, along with letters of support from Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony, Nevada State Senator Carrie Buck, and U.S. Representative Dina Titus, have rallied behind the project. This bipartisan support underscores the importance of strengthening domestic critical minerals processing and expanding American manufacturing opportunities.

The Defense Logistics Agency's research and development office has also expressed interest in the project, particularly in the application of gallium recovery technology. SAFE Structure Designs is working closely with a specialized research and development partner to translate the processing technology into equipment suitable for field demonstration. The pilot will provide valuable insights into field performance, guiding future manufacturing and deployment decisions.

In addition to the technological and operational aspects, the initiative includes a planned college education and workforce development component. SAFE intends to engage colleges and higher education institutions to develop technical training, applied learning opportunities, and career pathways in critical minerals recovery, processing, and advanced manufacturing. This educational component is designed to connect technology development with practical education, preparing students and future workers for the challenges and opportunities in domestic recovery systems.

Through this gallium recovery initiative, SAFE Structure Designs is expanding its mission-focused engineering and manufacturing work into domestic critical minerals processing. The project combines field demonstration, modular equipment development, and planned workforce education to support a stronger American supply chain. The company's goal is to strengthen America's critical minerals supply chain while creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation to learn, build, and serve.