ritkafémeket

Rare earths, or ritkafémek in Hungarian, are a group of seventeen chemical elements with similar metallic properties. These elements include the fifteen lanthanides, scandium, and yttrium. Despite their name, most rare earth elements are not particularly rare in the Earth's crust, but they are rarely found in concentrations high enough to make extraction economically viable. Their extraction and purification are complex and costly processes.

These elements are essential components in a wide array of modern technologies. They are crucial for the production of magnets used in electric vehicles and wind turbines, phosphors for lighting and displays, catalysts in petroleum refining and automotive catalytic converters, and alloys for batteries and other electronic devices. Their unique magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties make them indispensable for many high-tech applications.

The global supply of rare earths is dominated by a few countries, leading to concerns about market stability and security of supply. China has historically been the largest producer and exporter of rare earths, although other countries are increasing their production capacity. The geopolitical implications of rare earth supply chains are significant due to their strategic importance in defense and advanced manufacturing. Research into alternative materials and more efficient recycling methods is ongoing to mitigate these dependencies.