WHAT IS RARE EARTH ELEMENTS?
Group of 17 metals with distinctive properties, vital for advanced technology, electronics, and renewable energy applications.
RARE EARTH ELEMENTS
Rare earth elements are all metals and have many similar properties, and that often causes them to be found together in geologic deposits. They are also referred to as “rare earth oxides” because many of them are typically sold as oxide compounds.
Rare earth oxides such as neodymium and praseodymium are expected to grow in demand due to their use in technologies such as magnets, aircraft engines, and specialty glass as well as green technologies including wind turbines and hybrid cars.
REE USAGE
The main uses of rare earths, based on 95% of TREO consumption over 10 years, can be grouped into eight categories:
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Battery alloys: used in rechargeable batteries for hybrid electric vehicles, power tools, etc
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Catalysts: used in catalytic converters, fuel cracking catalysts, etc
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Ceramics, pigments, and glazes: used in applications that necessitate high-temperature stability
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Glass polishing powders and additives: used in optical glass to mobile phones and LCD screens
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Metallurgy and alloys: added to liquid steel during steelmaking
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Permanent magnets for use in motors
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Phosphors: used in lamps and backlighting
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Other uses in chemicals, materials, and technologies such as communications, defense, and healthcare.
