What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Energy Fuels, a Denver-based company, has announced the production of its first kilogram of dysprosium oxide at its White Mesa mill in Utah. This marks a significant step toward commercial-scale output of heavy rare earths in the US. The company achieved a purity level of 99.9% at pilot scale, surpassing the commercial specification of 99.5%. Production is currently running at about two kilograms per week using monazite mined in Florida and Georgia. Energy Fuels plans to produce approximately 15 kg of dysprosium oxide before transitioning to terbium oxide production, with first samples expected in the fourth quarter of 2025. The company aims to install large-scale separation capacity for dysprosium, terbium, and other heavy rare earth oxides by late 2026.
Why It's Important?
The production of dysprosium oxide by Energy Fuels is a significant development in the US rare earth industry, which has been largely dependent on imports. This achievement represents a step toward establishing a domestic supply chain for critical minerals, which are essential for various commercial and defense applications. The ability to produce high-purity dysprosium oxide domestically could reduce reliance on foreign sources and enhance national security. This development also supports the growth of industries that utilize rare earth elements, such as electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.
What's Next?
Energy Fuels will continue its pilot operations and transition to terbium oxide production, with plans to expand its separation capacity. The company may seek partnerships or investments to support its growth and enhance its production capabilities. The success of this initiative could encourage other companies to explore domestic production of rare earth elements, potentially leading to increased innovation and competitiveness in the US rare earth industry.
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