Rare Earth Metals
Rare earth metals, also known as rare metals, are a group of 17 chemical elements which include the 15 lanthanides, with the addition of scandium and yttrium. Although they are referred to as “rare”, they actually comprise of almost 0.2 percent of the Earth’s crust.
Sometimes confused with precious metals, rare earth metals are not as widely known and are missing from the periodic table due to their similarity in structure and chemical properties. Knowledge on this important group of elements is also often limited despite their wide range of applications found in almost all aspects of modern life.
One of the biggest advantages of using rare earth metals is their high level physical and chemical properties. They are known for their magnetic properties, ability to conduct electricity and are highly resistant to corrosion – making them invaluable in many scientific and technological applications.
Some of the most common uses of rare earth metals include modern fluorescent lighting, medical and healthcare applications, lasers for surgery, metal alloys for aircraft and automobile engines, and water filtration systems. They are also an essential part of the renewable energy industry as they are used in components of electric and hybrid vehicles and to manufacture renewable energy sources like solar cells, wind turbines and fuel cells.
In the next few years, it is expected that the demand for rare earth metals will continue to grow due to their key roles in global technological and economic advancement.
However, this growing interest is also often accompanied with issues such as diminishing sources of rare metals and their cost availability. Despite the concern, it’s still highly unlikely that rare earth metals will be completely exhausted as new methods of extraction, reuse and recycling are being developed.
Additionally, while the majority of rare metals are being mined in China, foreign governments are increasingly investing in mining and refining the element, with organizations like the United States Geological Survey (USGS) initiating projects to help find and develop innovative ways to use and revive the use of rare earth metals.
Overall, rare earth metals have a wide and varied range of applications and are essential for the proliferation of modern day technologies and the economy. As global demand for these elements continue to grow, it is important to identify new sources, ways to produce and recycle these metals, in order to ensure effective use that is also sustainable for the long run.
