Rare earth elements (REEs) consist of the lanthanides plus
yttrium and scandium. Global demand for REEs in 2015 was estimated to 210,000
tons. These elements are chemically very similar and randomly distributed in
nature. Hence, their production is difficult and challenging due to many
byproducts such as thorium, uranium, heavy metals and acidic waste waters.
Moreover, they can be found together in bulky rocks, so their separation is
sophisticated. The classical exploitation of REE sources currently pollutes
nature heavily. Due to that and the fact that around 97% of the worldwide needof REEs are provided by China, making REE-consuming industries excessively
dependent on rationing and the rising world market prizes, there is a great
interest in alternative and environmentally friendly methods for delivering these
elements. Read more...................
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