REE (Rare Earth Elements)

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are a group of 17 minerals crucial for modern technology, including smartphones, renewable energy, electric vehicles, and advanced electronics. Despite their name, they are relatively abundant but often found in dispersed, low concentrations, making extraction challenging. REEs possess unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties, which drive their high demand. They are primarily mined in countries like China, the United States, and Australia. Because of their importance in green technologies and high-tech industries, developing sustainable and efficient methods for REE supply is a strategic economic and environmental priority globally.