Özet:

Rare earth elements (REE) are utilized in the production of high-tech products that are resistant to high temperature, abrasion, and corrosion. They are termed critical raw materials due to their high economic value and risk of availability. REE are used in many fields where advanced technological products such as electric-electronic devices (mobile phones, computers, TVs), rechargeable batteries (NiMH batteries), modern medical devices (MR), wind turbines, catalytic converters, engines (aircraft, electric vehicle engines), glass and ceramic industry oil refinery, solar panels are applied. With the widespread use of hybrid and electric vehicles and wind turbines, the demand for rare earth elements is increasing. Although there are many REE-bearing minerals, the most common minerals of industrial interest are bastnäzite, monazite and xenotime. In addition to these minerals, magnets, fluorescent lamps, catalysts and rechargeable batteries are also secondary sources containing important rare earth elements. In this study, their importance, potential, and production technologies of primary and secondary sources are evaluated. Recovery methods from minerals and secondary sources are discussed with flow charts. Important secondary sources such as Nd-Fe-B magnets, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and fluorescent lamp waste are discussed in detail.

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