REE Supply Chain 

The REE supply chain

The rare earth elements (REE) supply chain is complex, global and includes multiple actors that interconnect to deliver the materials, components and products-bearing REE that are  essential for a range of applications. The rare earth elements supply chain comprises the stages of exploration, extraction, processing, manufacture, use and end-of life. Each one of the stages includes material transformation processes, in which REE are transformed into different forms (e.g. from ore to oxides and metals).

REE are fundamental for decarbonisation technologies, such as wind-powered energy generation (i.e. wind turbines) and electric vehicles, which rely on the availability of permanent magnets. REE availability is highly concentrated in China and the overall market has been volatile, with rising concerns around security of supply in the global and UK communities. 

The future outlook for REE is that of increasing demand for all markets, but especially so for permanent magnets and metal alloys and the related REE (e.g. Nd, Dy, Pr, Tb). There are several challenges to bringing new supply on stream and extend beyond the physical imbalance between supply and demand. Environmental, economic, social and political challenges also exert significant influence on the future of the REE supply chain. 

In Met4Tech, we attempt to understand and quantify the UK REE supply chain, including the reverse options focusing on wind turbines and electric vehicles as key applications. Our aim is to identify global influences and bottlenecks that may impact the UK, but more importantly the identification of circular economy opportunities.