India has a rich history, and its past glory as the “Golden Bird” is well known, even to its former colonizers. Today, the country continues to make significant strides, as evidenced by the recent discovery of 15 rare earth metals in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh by the scientists of the National Geographic research institute based in Hyderabad.
This discovery comes shortly after the finding of lithium in Kashmir, and it has sparked excitement among Indians, who are eager to explore the potential benefits of these rare elements in various industries.
Which are these rare earth metals?
Rare earth metals include Lanthanum, Cerium, Praseodymium, Neodymium, Yttrium, Hafnium, Tantalum, Niobium, Zirconium, and Scandium.
How will these metals benefit us?
Luckily, all of these metals have different usages and will indeed, help India in the following ways –
1. Firstly, the country need not depend on Chinese imports as the raw materials once imported from the neighbouring country will be readily available in our country – India.
2. The use of rare earth metals guarantees benefits in different sectors. Hence, here is a list of usages of some of the known yet rarely found metals
(i) Lanthanum – Lanthanum is a versatile element used in multiple industries, including steel manufacturing, lighting, optics, and medical science. Because of its distinct qualities, it is a suitable component for increasing the strength, ductility, and toughness of steel alloys, resulting in the most durable materials.
Lanthanum is also an essential resource for the chemical industry due to its capacity to act as a catalyst in industrial processes such as petroleum refining and plastic manufacturing. Its usage in rechargeable batteries for hybrid cars and portable electronics demonstrates its ability to spur technical innovation and minimize reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
(ii) Cerium – One of the most important uses of cerium is in the manufacture of catalytic converters for automobiles. Cerium oxide minimizes harmful emissions by converting carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into less dangerous gases.
Cerium is also helpful for creating steel and aluminum alloys, and glass, particularly for color TV tubes. Cerium also has medical applications, including cancer treatment and the creation of X-ray-enhancing screens.
(iii) Praseodymium – Praseodymium is widely used in the manufacturing of powerful magnets for use in motors and generators. It is also used to improve the strength and corrosion resistance of steel alloys. Furthermore, praseodymium is utilized in the production of yellow glass, which is used in welding goggles and some types of camera lenses. Not to forget, Praseodymium has some medical applications, such as the treatment of cancer and bone diseases.
(iv) Neodymium – Its most notable application is in the manufacture of strong magnets for use in electric motors, wind turbines, and other energy-related applications.
Neodymium is also utilized in the production of lasers, such as those used in medicine and industry. It is used to color glass purple or violet, as well as to make high-tech alloys such as steel and aluminum alloys.
(v) Yttrium – One of its primary applications is in the manufacture of superconductors, which have no electrical resistance and are best for medical imaging equipment and particle accelerators.
Yttrium is also useful in the manufacture of fluorescent light phosphors, as well as camera lenses and other optical components. It can also act as a catalyst in chemical reactions, especially in the petrochemical industry. Yttrium also has some medical applications, such as the therapy of some forms of cancer.
Expert views
As per the scientists of the known institute (National Geographic Research Institute), Mr. P.V Sindhu Raju said manufacturing permanent magnets will be one of the best usages of the above rare metals. However, they have the capability to make certain industries better, be it electronics, jet space, automotive or clean energy.
Our View
The discovery of 15 rare earth elements in the Andhra Pradesh district of Anantapur is a great success for India. These metals have a wide range of applications, from making powerful magnets for electric motors to strengthening steel alloys, and their discovery will help India reduce its reliance on Chinese imports.
With the availability of these rare metals in the country, India may also encourage technological innovation, reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, and open up new opportunities in a variety of industries.
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