Rare earth elements play a crucial role in modern high-tech applications, from fluorescent lights and computer hard drives to automobiles and defense industries. However, the global recovery rate of rare earth elements from electronic waste is currently below 1% due to the high energy consumption, complex chemical processes, and exorbitant costs involved in isolating these elements.

Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, led by Professor Peilin and her advisor Mug, have developed a novel method utilizing specialized extractants to alter the dissolution rate of rare earth elements and significantly increase separation efficiency. Peilin noted, "Without proper regulations or innovations to drive the recovery of rare earth elements, it is indeed challenging. It has been evident for a long time that continuously mining rare earths is cheaper than examining our waste."

Rare earth elements refer to a group of 17 metallic elements positioned between atomic numbers 57 and 71 on the periodic table. Although referred to as 'rare,' they are not scarce in the earth's crust and are even more commonly found than precious metals like gold and platinum. However, these elements are usually dispersed across various minerals and do not exist in pure forms, complicating extraction processes and leading to severe environmental pollution.

Peilin exemplified the recycling of europium from light bulbs, where white phosphor is separated from glass, powdered and dissolved in acid, then refined using specialized techniques to yield nearly pure europium. This method not only minimizes chemical waste generated during refinement but also reduces environmental impact and conserves energy.

Given the concentrated distribution of rare earth elements, the global supply chain faces significant uncertainty. With China being the largest possessor of rare earth resources, fluctuations in its export policies can have substantial implications for the market. As demand for rare earths in technology continues to expand, it will significantly affect the competitive dynamics in other countries.

This situation explains why U.S. President Donald Trump is keen on establishing a mineral agreement with Ukraine, as the U.S.-China trade war closely ties to China's controls over rare earth exports. This reliance has posed significant challenges for the U.S. and Europe, who have neglected the rare earth industry for decades.

In June 2024, Peilin's innovative technology is set to gain global attention via publication in the prestigious journal Nature, aimed at assisting the EU in achieving its critical raw materials legislation passed in 2023, which stipulates that by 2030, 25% of strategic rare earth usage must come from recycling.