The Principal Rare Earth Elements Deposits of the United States-A Summary of Domestic Deposits and a Global Perspective: Usgs Scientific Investigations Report 2010-5220

The rare earth elements (REE) are fifteen elements with atomic numbers 57 through 71, from lanthanum to lutetium (\“lanthanides\”), plus yttrium (39), which is chemically similar to the lanthanide elements and thus typically included with the rare earth elements. Although industrial demand for these elements is relatively small in tonnage terms, they are essential for a diverse and expanding array of high-technology applications. REE-containing magnets, metal alloys for batteries and light-weight structures, and phosphors are essential for many current and emerging alternative energy technologies, such as electric vehicles, energy-efficient lighting, and wind power. REE are also critical for a number of key defense systems and other advanced materials.