Rare Earth in Steel
Introduction
Rare earth elements are used in a variety of industrial applications, and one of the most important is their use in steel production. Steel is one of the most commonly used materials in the modern world and has many important uses in a variety of industries. Rare earths are used in steel to enhance its physical and chemical properties, making it more durable and resistant to corrosion. This article will discuss the importance of rare earth elements in steel and their applications in the steel industry.
What are Rare Earths?
Rare earth elements are a group of seventeen naturally occurring elements in the periodic table. They are also referred to as lanthanides, a term that was coined to describe their similarities in atomic structure. The rare earth elements are typically found in concentrations of less than 1% in the Earth’s crust.
The seventeen rare earth elements have unique physical and chemical properties. They have high conductivity, density and strength, and are resistant to corrosion. Due to these properties, they are used in a variety of industrial processes, including steel production.
Uses of Rare Earths in Steel
Rare earth elements are used to improve the mechanical and chemical properties of steel. The majority of its strength is due to its ability to resist oxidation and corrosion, and this is one of the main reasons why rare earths are used in steel production. Rare earths are also used to enhance the hardness and wear resistant properties of steel, making it less prone to wear and tear.
Due to their ability to improve the strength, ductility and wear resistance of steel, rare earths are used in a variety of applications in the steel industry. They are used to produce steel rods, bars and tubes, and are used to manufacture steel wires and sheets. Rare earths are also used in the production of stainless steels, which have improved corrosion resistance.
The most common rare earth element used in steel production is neodymium. It is mixed into the steel at low concentrations and improves the strength and ductility of the steel. Other rare earth elements that are commonly used in steel include cerium, lanthanum, samarium, and dysprosium.
Conclusion
Rare earth elements are used in a variety of industrial applications, and one of the most important is their use in steel production. They are used to improve the mechanical and chemical properties of steel, making it more durable and resistant to corrosion. Rare earths are also used to enhance the wear resistant properties of steel, making it less prone to wear and tear. The most common rare earth element used in steel production is neodymium, but other rare earths like cerium, lanthanum, samarium and dysprosium are also used.
