It would appear that the term rare earth is something of a misnomer, since it is composed of elements that are not really uncommon. Any oxide of the element lanthanide is included in the term. There are fifteen such oxides, but the elements scandium and yttrium, also fall within the category, so there are actually seventeen elements involved. They are widespread over the earth’s crust, but seldom found in concentrations which permit economic exploitation. Nevertheless rare earths news has dominated headlines recently.
There is a hypothesis which holds that the uniqueness of our planet is tied up with the occurrence of certain elements on it. If this is true, and the Earth is of unique composition, then there is unlikely to be other forms of complex life like ours out there in the milky way. Conversely, if the Earth is not unique, but a common composition of rocks, then it is more likely that there are similar forms of complex life somewhere in the universe.
“Ytterbite” was found in Sweden in the nineteenth century. The other constituent elements were gradually isolated in the years that followed. It has become more and more useful as technology has become more sophisticated because it is essential in equipment used in military and scientific installations.
The substance is most useful in equipment that has batteries and magnets as components. In fields such as robotics and electrical motor vehicles these components are increasingly important, so it enjoys growing significance in the industrial world. In fact it is becoming indispensable in the manufacture of many key components in military and scientific installations.
Originally rare earth was produced in India and Brazil. Large deposits were discovered in South Africa around 1950 and this was the main source of the elements for some years. When China began to move away from centralized government toward a market driven economy it became the main source of supply. It is produced mainly in Inner Mongolia, and also in some smaller mines in the south. China now produces about 90% of the world’s supply.
With China’s membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO) came many trading opportunities and also some obligations and global regulations. Members are obliged to observe certain trade practices, and conform to standards of production. Governments must also abstain from undue interference in trade for political and military purposes.
Some WTO members have been concerned that China, with 90% of the world’s resources, has imposed some bans on export, and restrictions on production. It has been claimed that this is for political purposes and will give China strategic advantages in military and political spheres. There have been representations at the WTO forum.
However, China points to the environmental considerations. In fact, the production and processing of rare earths does entail radio active and other toxic waste. Citing these facts China has restricted production and export of rare earth, in the process strengthening it political position in the world balance of power. The USA and other trading partners worry that the Chinese stranglehold on production will threaten their own military positions and have strategic consequences for the balance of world power.
You can read more about rare earths news. Stop by Richard Walker’s site where you can find out related information and resources about rare earths companies and what it can do for you.
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