One key take-away from this is refining. We are competitive in the mining area (I read that we were #2, but this chart says Myanmar is #2). But we have very little processing capacity. So we have to export it to be refined/processed.
I don’t know how dirty the processing is, but the US probably should be looking to expand that capacity. Based on the 2030 number, it looks as if we might be.
I don’t think you expect rare earth to yield nuggets like those found by early gold miners. I suspect 2% assay is good quality. So 98 lb of waste for every two lbs of mixed rare earths. Then you must separate them. That usually requires more chemicals and waste streams.
It’s a very dirty business for high value products.
There is also the classical co-product problem. Mother Nature gives you multiple rare earths at a fixed ratio determined by the ore mined. Some are much more valuable than others. So most valuable and desired product must bear all costs and profits. The rest go into inventory while you look for new markets. Long term storage can be an added cost. Some may turn out to be worthless.
For some historical perspective, this YT, IMO, gives some useful events on the REE timeline.
Starting in the early 1980s (or perhaps 1970s), US L&SS pushed for “bringing China into developed status”, and actively supported China’s use of unfair activities to drive (US) competitors out of the market.
As a result, China now owns lots of patents for processing and refining, as well as a majority of experts in that industry.
The US n West now must start all over developing alternative mining, processing and refining technology as well as experts who can operate and scale that tech.
FWIW
ralph
You have to respect China for its strategic planning and investment. They take the long view and are less concerned about short term profits.
Western companies had the same opportunities but were reluctant to compete. Now govt assistance is required.
At the same time, it is not hard to find articles about Chinese economic weaknesses. Are the technological advances at the expense of its broader economic stability and social well-being? If so, how long can it go on?
DB2
A new book points out China is led by engineers who like to build things. The U.S. is mostly led by lawyers who tend to block or delay projects. Totalitarian govt have their limitations but strategic planning and follow through are clear advantages.