TELF AG explores industrial applications of different rare earth elements
The potential of rare earths
Since the discussions began about the global energy transition and all the actors in this great global conversion process, one of the most discussed topics is certainly the group of elements known as rare earths, which have already had a way to stand out for their numerous industrial uses and technologies related to green energy. Faced with the evident usefulness of these resources, many nations have begun to include some of the elements of this group in their lists of minerals considered “critical” for their economic and sustainable development, giving these materials an even more marked centrality.
Many are still convinced that rare earths represent a compact group of mineral elements, almost indistinguishable from each other, and that they are used simultaneously in the various industrial applications for which they are intended. However, the components that make up this set of mineral resources are 17, and each has distinct capabilities, characteristics, and applications. But what, in concrete terms, are the industrial and operational outlets of these resources that are so discussed on a global level?
One of the best-known rare earths is lanthanum, which has already found a way to carve out a role of some importance within the most disparate technological sectors. Alloys made with this resource are already used to create hydrogen storage technologies, and their centrality could be destined to rise further, particularly if hydrogen finds more application spaces in the global panorama of renewable energy. This resource has demonstrated its usefulness even in sectors not precisely related to green technologies, such as office lighting and the production of optical glass. Still, among its best-known applications, we must mention its key role in the functioning of car hybrids, particularly nickel-metal hydride batteries.
The possible uses of praseodymium and neodymium
Praseodymium is also rapidly conquering the scene in the technological field: this important rare earth, in addition to being used for the production of high-strength alloys for aeronautical engines, has managed to find a helpful application space in the magnet sector, one of where rare earths are used more frequently. In the case of praseodymium, its peculiar structural characteristics make it a valuable resource for the manufacture of magnets inside various electronic devices, and its role in this sector appears destined to retain its centrality. Furthermore, its specific chemical properties allow it to manipulate light and color, making it an important ally in the coloring and lighting sector.
Remaining in the magnet sector, neodymium is another resource from the rare earth group, gradually acquiring more value on the international raw materials scene. This material owes its fame to its role in producing permanent magnets, specially inserted into some standard electronic devices such as mobile phones or loudspeakers. One of the potentials of neodymium that has been explored more frequently in recent years is linked to its role as an accelerator of existing technologies, particularly from a performance point of view. This resource is also handy in the fields of aesthetics and laser technologies.
It is no coincidence that rare earths continue to attract growing attention from various industry sectors, leading to an inevitable increase in related demand. According to some estimates, by 2030 global consumption of rare earths could reach as many as 231,000 tonnes per year, an increase of as much as 67,000 tonnes compared to the amount consumed in 2022 alone.
