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RMIT Breakthrough Could Double Rare Earth Element Recovery

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. gh-could-double-rare-earth-element-recovery.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Friday, January 30th 2026 at 19:26 GMT by ScienceAlert
      Locales: AUSTRALIA, CHINA, UNITED STATES

Melbourne, Australia - January 31st, 2026 - A groundbreaking scientific advancement from RMIT University in Australia promises to reshape the landscape of rare earth element (REE) extraction, potentially doubling recovery rates while dramatically reducing environmental impact. As global demand for REEs - essential components in everything from smartphones and wind turbines to electric vehicles and defense technologies - continues to surge, this innovation offers a crucial pathway toward a more sustainable and secure supply chain.

Rare earth elements, despite their name, aren't actually rare in the Earth's crust. However, they are rarely found in concentrated deposits, making extraction difficult, expensive, and often environmentally damaging. Traditional methods rely heavily on harsh chemicals like strong acids and alkalis, creating substantial waste products and posing risks to ecosystems. Furthermore, current extraction processes often leave significant amounts of REEs untapped in mining tailings - the residual waste material following mineral processing - representing a considerable loss of valuable resources.

Now, a team led by Dr. Jingtao Huang at RMIT University has unveiled a novel approach utilizing ionic liquids. These uniquely structured salts remain liquid at room temperature and possess an extraordinary ability to selectively dissolve and bind to REEs, effectively separating them from the complex mixtures found in mining tailings. This selectivity is key; unlike traditional methods, the ionic liquid process targets REEs specifically, minimizing the extraction of unwanted elements and reducing the volume of subsequent purification needed.

The published research in Joule (Huang, J., et al. (2024). Highly efficient and selective extraction of rare earth elements from mine tailings using deep eutectic solvents. Joule, 8(11), 2370-2402) details how the team successfully applied this method to mine tailings, achieving recovery rates significantly higher than conventional techniques. Estimates suggest a potential doubling of REE recovery, unlocking a vast, previously untapped resource.

"REE extraction is notoriously challenging," explains Dr. Huang. "Existing methods often rely on harsh chemicals and produce significant waste. Our ionic liquid process is much more selective and efficient, significantly reducing environmental harm." The inherent recyclability of the ionic liquids further enhances the sustainability of the process. The liquids themselves can be repeatedly used, minimizing waste generation and lowering operational costs - a critical factor for widespread adoption.

Professor Thomas Eglin, a co-author of the study, emphasizes the strategic importance of this advancement. "The ability to recover more REEs from existing waste streams is crucial for securing supply chains and ensuring a more sustainable future for these critical materials." He notes that reducing reliance on new mining operations is paramount, as these ventures can lead to deforestation, habitat loss, and water contamination.

The geopolitical implications are also substantial. Currently, China dominates the REE supply chain, controlling a significant portion of global production. This dominance has raised concerns about supply security and potential disruptions, particularly for countries reliant on REEs for their technological industries. Developing alternative, efficient, and environmentally responsible extraction methods, like the RMIT University breakthrough, could diversify the supply chain and mitigate these risks.

The team is now focused on scaling up the process from laboratory demonstration to industrial application. Challenges remain, including optimizing the ionic liquid composition for different types of tailings and developing cost-effective recycling systems. However, initial results are promising, and several mining companies have already expressed strong interest in collaborating on pilot projects.

The long-term vision extends beyond simply recovering REEs from tailings. Researchers are exploring the applicability of this ionic liquid technology to other REE-containing materials, including low-grade ores and even urban waste streams like electronic waste (e-waste). Successfully implementing this across multiple sources could create a truly circular economy for REEs, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing resource utilization. This innovative approach signifies a pivotal moment in the pursuit of a greener economy and a more secure future for critical materials, positioning Australia as a potential leader in sustainable REE extraction.