| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2020 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Rare Metal Extraction & Processing
|
| Presentation Title |
Secondary and Byproduct Sources of Rare Earth Metals |
| Author(s) |
Gabrielle Gaustad, Alexandra Leader, Eric Williams, Saptarshi Das |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Gabrielle Gaustad |
| Abstract Scope |
Current concerns about lack of diversity in supply of critical materials have spurred research into utilizing domestic sources, particularly from waste streams. This work combines material flow analysis and techno-economic modelling to explore the resource and economic potential for byproducts (coal combustion products, red mud) and secondary sources (waste electronics) to become a valuable source of rare earth elements (REE). Results show while REE concentrations in coal ash are significantly lower than currently economically extractable ores in most mines, the magnitude of materials available could meet current REE demand even at fairly low extraction yield rates. For many waste electronics, the concentration is much higher than economically extractable ores, but volumes may not meet demand depending on geographic location. Furthermore, infrastructure for collection and processing may not be in place. A combination of higher REE commodity prices which seems likely, improved yields, and enhanced infrastructure is required for economic profitability. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |