Rare earths are essential to products with significant growth potential in markets associated with the electronics and technology industries, energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction. As a key component in re-chargeable batteries and the magnets in electric motors, rare earths play a fundamental role in hybrid motor vehicles. These cars are fuel efficient and major contributors to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The diverse nuclear, chemical, metallurgical, catalytic, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of the Rare Earth Elements (REE) have led to an ever increasing variety of applications and demands. REE are critical and strategic components in many high-tech developments.

REE are also key products in the electronics market, including mobile phones, personal organisers, laptop computers and LCD television screens.

These new technologies are being rapidly adopted across the globe as electronic media becomes an essential part of the personal apparel and business environments.