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Recycling rare earths: Perspectives and recent advances

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

87 Scopus citations

Abstract

Rare-earth element (REE) demand is expected to increase by a factor of up to 7 by 2040. Recycling avoids the significant hurdles associated with opening new mines, but collection and disassembly of REE-containing devices are barriers. Absolute and relative abundances of REEs and co-occurring constituents differ significantly in secondary compared to primary sources, presenting challenges and opportunities. REE concentrations are typically low, but manufactured devices include only the desired REE, avoiding the “REE balance problem” that besets natural ores. Fewer REEs need to be separated, as compared to separation of the entire lanthanide series. Co-recovery of precious (e.g., Au, Ag, Pt) or base metals (e.g., Cu, Sn, Zn) from e-wastes can offset recycling costs. Some examples of recently developed approaches for REE extraction and separation are presented here, with an emphasis on methods offering environmental benefits such as lower toxic chemical usage and reduced energy costs. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)283-288
Number of pages6
JournalMRS Bulletin
Volume47
Issue number3
Early online dateApr 21 2022
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 21 2022

Keywords

  • Circular economy
  • Rare earths
  • Recycling

INL Publication Number

  • INL/JOU-21-65156
  • 103989

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