| Abstract Scope |
Rare earth elements (REEs) are essential components in modern technologies, including electric vehicles, wind turbines, and consumer electronics. As global demand for REEs continues to grow, there is an urgent need for efficient and diversified extraction methods that minimize reliance on harsh chemicals and high energy input. To this end, this study investigates two alkaline-based processes for recovering REEs from Vietnamese bastnaesite concentrate: direct alkali leaching and microwave-assisted alkali roasting. These two methods are systematically compared in terms of leaching efficiency, energy consumption, and reagent usage. Morphological, structural, and compositional analyses are carried out to uncover the physicochemical transformations occurring during each process and to elucidate their underlying mechanisms. The comparison evaluates whether microwave-assisted roasting can offer advantages in processing time and/or selectivity. These findings support ongoing efforts to develop more robust and environmentally responsible REE extraction strategies, contributing to a secure and regionally diversified supply. |