China has introduced a revolutionary technology that could significantly increase the efficiency of rare earth element production, with what has been described as an “unprecedented” recovery rate. According to a study published in the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) South China Morning Post (SCMP), this innovative method based on electric fields has managed to recover 95 percent of rare earths, while also reducing mining time by 70 percent and cutting electricity use by 60 percent.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey and the International Energy Agency, China is the largest producer of rare earth elements (REEs) in the world, accounting for about 70 percent of global production and 90 percent of processing.
Rare earth minerals are essential for the manufacturing of electronics, smartphones vehicles and weapons but their production is limited due to the “disastrous” environmental record associated with their mining. However, the study claims that the new technology has shown a 95 percent reduction in ammonia emissions compared to traditional methods.
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What is the new mining technology?
This new technology uses electric fields to separate rare earth elements, which are often dispersed in low concentrations within ores, making their extraction expensive and environmentally difficult.
“A rigorous environmental risk assessment revealed a 95 percent reduction in ammonia emissions, indicating a significantly reduced environmental footprint,” the team wrote.
By shortening mining periods and reducing both energy consumption and emissions, this method could set a new standard in the industry, especially in China, which dominates global rare earth production.
“REE recovery efficiency reached 95.5 percent within 60 days using the EKM technology, whereas only (about) 15 percent was recovered within 60 days with conventional leaching,” the researchers said.
With Donald Trump set to restart the trade war with China after he takes office on January 20, Beijing may be able to take advantage of the success of the new method along with its position in the REE industry.
Additionally, by reducing some of the environmental impacts of rare earth mining, China can help reduce international criticism regarding its environmental practices in this sector.
