Rare earth metals refer to a group of 17 elements in the periodic table of elements that have unique properties that make them widely used in various industries. Among them, metallurgy relies heavily on rare earth metals. This article will explore the application of REEs in the metallurgical industry.
Rare earth metals are often used as alloying additives. The addition of rare earth metals to some alloys increases their strength, toughness and corrosion resistance.
One example is the addition of cerium to aluminum alloys. Cerium can not only significantly improve the high-temperature strength and creep resistance of aluminum alloys, but also reduce the purity requirements of aluminum raw materials.
here is another example. That is, adding rare earth metals to steel. Thus can enhance the hardenability and reduce the brittleness of the steel. These rare earth additives reduce the severity of temper embrittlement by combining with oxygen and sulfur and by absorbing phosphorus, tin, antimony, and arsenic to form inclusions containing these elements.
Related reading: The Influence of Rare Earth Addition on Cast Magnesium Alloys
Rare earth metals are also used as catalysts in the metallurgy industry. These metals have unique catalytic properties, such as high thermal stability, chemical stability, and selectivity. Rare earth metals are used as catalysts in various processes, such as hydrocracking, isomerization, and alkylation. For example, cerium is commonly used as a catalyst in the production of sulfuric acid.
Rare earth metals are used in the production of magnesium alloys, which have various applications in the aerospace, automotive, and electronics industries. Rare earth metals can modify the microstructure and improve the mechanical properties of magnesium alloys. For example, the addition of cerium to magnesium alloys can improve their corrosion resistance and high-temperature properties.
Rare earth metals are used in the production of permanent magnets, which are essential components in various industrial applications, such as electric motors and generators. These magnets have high magnetic strength and stability, making them ideal for use in high-performance applications. The most commonly used rare earth metals in permanent magnets are neodymium, praseodymium, and dysprosium.
In conclusion, rare earth metals play a crucial role in the metallurgy industry. These metals are used as alloying elements, catalysts, and in the production of magnesium alloys and permanent magnets. The unique properties of rare earth metals make them valuable materials for various industrial applications, and their demand is expected to continue to grow in the future. However, the supply of rare earth metals is limited, and their extraction and processing can be environmentally challenging. Therefore, there is a need for sustainable and efficient methods for the production and use of rare earth metals in the metallurgy industry.
Stanford Materials Corporation (SMC) is a worldwide supplier of various rare earth oxides, metals, alloys, advanced ceramic materials, and minerals.
Eric Loewen
Eric Loewen graduated from the University of Illinois studying applied chemistry. His educational background gives him a broad base from which to approach many topics. He has been working with topics about advanced materials for over 5 years at Stanford Materials Corporation (SMC). His main purpose in writing these articles is to provide a free, yet quality resource for readers. He welcomes feedback on typos, errors, or differences in opinion that readers come across.
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