ReElement Technologies Advances US Defense Capabilities with Domestic Terbium Production

ReElement Technologies

ReElement Technologies, a US-based developer of high-performance refining capacities for rare earths and battery metals, has achieved a significant milestone by producing 99.5% pure terbium, enhancing the resilience of defense technologies.

Strategic Advancements in Rare Earth Refining

Located at its Commercial Qualification Plant in Noblesville, Indiana, ReElement Technologies—a subsidiary of American Resources—is pioneering the separation and refinement of terbium along with other rare earth elements like dysprosium, neodymium, and praseodymium. The company's focus on heavy and light rare earths is crucial for supplying materials to the magnet and energy storage industries, which are vital for modern defense applications such as aircraft, submarines, and missile systems.

Terbium, known for its scarcity and difficulty in refinement, constitutes less than 1% of the total rare earth content in most deposits. Its ability to enhance the temperature resilience of neodymium iron boron magnets makes it indispensable for various defense mechanisms.

Innovative Technologies Paving the Way

ReElement Technologies employs ligand-assisted displacement (LAD) chromatography for its refining processes, setting a new standard for environmental and operational efficiency. This method is touted as cleaner and more efficient than traditional solvent-based extraction methods, characterized by higher yield, productivity, and flexibility, and importantly, it avoids the use of harsh or toxic chemicals.

The company’s approach not only supports more sustainable mining practices but also reduces the logistical and environmental challenges associated with transporting raw ore across long distances. By localizing processing and utilizing LAD chromatography, ReElement not only adheres to stringent environmental standards but also aims to compete with, if not undercut, the costs associated with rare earth oxides currently dominated by Chinese producers.

As part of its strategic initiative, in April, ReElement expanded its exclusive use of LAD chromatography patents to encompass a broader range of rare earth ores, reinforcing its capability to lead in the domestic production of these critical materials at competitive prices.