Rare Earth Element-Based Magnets: Science, Supply and Sustainability in 2021 and Beyond

University Distinguished Professor Vincent Harris is presenting “Rare Earth Element-Based Magnets: Science, Supply and Sustainability in 2021 and Beyond” as part of the Jefferson Science Fellowship Program of the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering.

Registration is required in advance of the lecture: Register here

Rare earth elements (REEs) and their supply chain have become topics of great interest to the U.S. diplomatic and national security communities. Presently, China dominates REE markets in all facets of processing from earth extraction to metals as well as value and commercialization verticals. Beijing has shown no hesitancy in using its position of market dominance to advance its broader political goals and agendas.

In this presentation, we focus on REE-based magnets and associated challenges faced in 2021. We explore REE science and applications, supply and policy, and sustainability and environmental impact. We examine what the future holds in terms of alternative sources, recycling, and the practice of designing components around the need to employ REEs. Finally, we report on steps taken by the global community to offset China’s monopoly on rare earths.