China accounts for about 60% of global rare earth mine production, but its share jumps to 85%-90% of processed rare earths and magnet output.
The ore contains a small percentage of rare earths, but other minerals are removed through flotation, magnetic or electrostatic processing to produce a mixed rare earth concentrate that often contains 60% to 70% rare earths.
So-called light and heavy rare earths must go through different separation circuits where individual rare earths are extracted.
METALS/ALLOYSSeparated rare earth oxides or carbonates are then refined into rare earth metals.
Small amounts of rare earths dysprosium and terbium are often added to create more heat resistance in the magnet.
Persons:
Steve Marcus, Goldman Sachs, Eric Onstad, Susan Heavey
Organizations:
REUTERS, Thomson
Locations:
Pass , California, U.S, China