Northeastern University Develops More Efficient Rare Earth Extraction Method

Published: Apr 2, 2026 12:31

Researchers at Northeastern University have introduced a new technique that can double the efficiency of rare earth element extraction.

The study reveals a method for recovering rare earth elements from coal tailings, waste materials left after mining, using chemical treatment combined with a specially designed microwave reactor for precise temperature control. This approach achieves extraction rates two to three times higher than previous methods.

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Researchers at Northeastern University have introduced a new technique - Shanghai Metals Market (SMM)