Australian company Lynas Corporation just pulled off the stunning feat. They have achieved the commercial production of a heavy rare earth element at their refinery in Malaysia. This landmark accomplishment represents a watershed moment in Western conservation efforts. It lays the groundwork for creating new, upstream supply chains for critical materials like rare earths that China has long cornered.
The production line for heavy rare earth separation, commissioned earlier this year, enables Lynas to expand its operations beyond its well-established expertise in light rare earths. Supply and geopolitics Lynas is now the world’s largest producer of light rare earth elements outside of China. It’s primarily known for processing magnet materials including neodymium and praseodymium (NdPr).
Lynas, too, is taking a strategic pivot to heavy rare earths. This strategic shift not only allows them to expand their product portfolio, but enhances their competitive stance within the increasingly competitive rare earth elements arena. The heavy rare earth element production is further evidence of the company’s production prowess. It most importantly positions the company as an industry leader and game changer within that space.
This refinery in Malaysia is a key lynchpin for Lynas. It strengthens the company’s position and capacity to fulfill the surging global appetite for rare earth raw materials. At the moment, China sits at the center of that market. Lynas, for its part, having expanded into the more demanding heavy rare earths, making this move is critical in expanding a more balanced supply chain.