Rare Earth Oxides
Rare Earth Oxides (REOs) are a group of 17 chemical compounds derived from rare earth elements, which include lanthanides and scandium and yttrium. These oxides are essential in various high-tech applications, such as electronics, renewable energy, and advanced materials. They are known for their unique magnetic, luminescent, and catalytic properties.
The extraction and processing of REOs can be challenging due to their low natural abundance and the complex geology of their deposits. Countries like China dominate the global supply, making REOs critical for industries ranging from electric vehicles to smartphones.