Rare earths metals are essential components to products with significant growth potential in the 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 will 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-technology developments.

REE are also key products in the electronics market, including mobile phones, personal organizers and laptop computers, and in plasma, LCD and CRT display screens.

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