Rare Earth Elements
Rare earth elements are a set of seventeen chemical elements, also known as lanthanides, in the periodic table. This set of elements have been in use since the 1950s and are now used in a range of advanced technologies, including but not limited to, use in electronics, military equipment, and renewable energy sources. Although the elements are termed “rare earth elements”, they are not actually that rare in comparison to other elements in the earth’s crust.
In general, the rare earth elements form part of the atomic structures of elements, as well as compounds. In terms of electrical properties, they are semiconductors, exhibiting properties similar to those of silicon and germanium. Rare earth elements have several unique properties, namely the ability to convert electricity into light, magnetism and variable conductance. The properties of these elements are critical for modern technological advancements, from the development of flat screens to improved permanent magnets.
The rare earth elements used in the multiple items mentioned above include but are not limited to Cerium, Dysprosium, Yttrium, and Neodymium. Cerium, for example, is used for gas mantles, flint lighters, lenses, and lasers. Dysprosium is used for magnets, lasers, and nuclear reactor control rods. Yttrium stabilizes many materials, including high-temperature super-conductors, magnets, and lasers. Neodymium is used in the production of special high-strength magnets, especially in electric motors and generators.
The demand for rare earth elements is continuously increasing due to their numerous diverse uses. This is not just limited to their application in technology, but in industries such as health, energy and materials. As an example, these elements are used for a more efficient and affordable energy production, including wind turbines, solar cells and fuel cells. The elements can also be used in x-ray imaging, improving healthcare outcomes.
Even with their substantial uses and benefits, rare earth elements still remain to be a challenge to extract, refine and use. This is due to their complex geological processes of formation and the slow process of extraction involving either open-pit or underground mining. Furthermore, other than being expensive, refining and extracting rare earth elements poses a danger to the environment, as certain elements have been found to have toxic effects on both the environment and humans. Developments have been made to work towards a sustainable system of mining and processing, but current conditions of use of rare earth elements remain highly unsustainable.
Although rare earth elements are not as rare as their name may suggest, the extraction, refinement, and complex sourcing processes makes them a precious commodity in the information age. They are an essential part of current and future technological advancements, from environmental-friendly energy production to improved healthcare outcomes. Even with the numerous advantages of rare earth elements, their extraction, refinement, and excessive uses remain to be a problem for the environment and demands highly sustainable measures for its use.
