Rare earth elements in the international economic scenario

Abstract

This article will focus on some relevant aspects of rare earths within the context of the mineral economy. It starts with a conceptual presentation of rare earths addressing both governmental actions, and the private sector. Then, briefly describes their chemical characteristics and their main applications. Finally, more emphasis will be given about some economic aspects: the supply chain structure, the mineral reserves, the production profile, the demand, supply and price analyses, both in the international and Brazilian contexts, and the exports and imports, highlighting China's participation in the rare earth market and concluding with the existence of a Chinese monopoly in the production of this product.

Evaluation of Chelating Resins Efficiency in Recovering Rare Earth Elements from Sulphate-Rich Acid Solutions

“…Rare earth elements (REE) are essential raw materials for the growth of modern industry as well as for designing and developing high-technology products used in our daily lives. These metals are essential for the production of magnets, cell phones, televisions, light-emitting diode (LED) light bulbs, wind turbines and electric vehicles [1][2][3]. They are also used in many medical and healthcare applications, such as antitumor agents, kidney dialysis drugs, surgical equipment, the treatment of cancer and kidney stones, a power source in portable X-ray devices, along with many imaging techniques such as computed tomography and positron emission magnetic resonance [4].…”

“…China has the largest REE world reserve (30%) and is also the principal producer [2,3]. However, REE availability is declining, and its scarcity leads to the development of new alternatives, such as recycling or secondary sources.…”

Determination of Rare Earth Element Contents in the Pulmoddai-Based Monazite.

“…(Thilakanayaka, 2015) As the technology is rapidly developing, it is possible to confirm that over the coming decades the REEs will be in more demand and valued, providing the producing countries with a very important competitive advantage in the international market. (Ortiz et al, 2014) The rare earths were discovered in 1787 by Swedish Army Lieutenant Karl Axel Arrhenius. (Hedrick, 2000) Although they are known as rare earths, they are not rare.…”