News

Japan will begin test mining of rare-earth–rich mud from the deep seabed near Minamitori Island in January–February, marking the world’s first continuous deep-sea extraction trial at a depth of about 6,000 metres. The move aims to reduce dependence on external suppliers, especially China, which dominates global rare-earth supply.

Key Points

1. Japan will extract rare-earth mud from ~6,000 m depth in the Pacific Ocean near Minamitori Island (EEZ).
2. The test aims to lift up to 350 metric tonnes per day of rare-earth-bearing mud.
3. No commercial production yet; a full-scale mining trial is planned for 2027 if tests succeed.
4. The project is backed by Japan’s government and aligns with its economic and maritime security strategy.
5. Environmental impacts will be monitored on the seabed and surrounding waters.
6. The initiative comes amid tightened Chinese export controls on rare-earth elements.
7. China has raised concerns, citing international law and conventions governing seabed activities.

Static Info(Prelims Notes)

What are Rare Earth Metals ?

1. Group of 17 elements:
   • 15 Lanthanides + Scandium (Sc) + Yttrium (Y).
2. Key elements: Neodymium, Dysprosium, Lanthanum, Cerium, Europium, etc.
3. Not actually “rare” in occurrence, but rarely found in concentrated, extractable form.

Properties & Uses

1. Unique properties:
   • Magnetic
   • Luminescent
2. • Electrochemical
3. Applications:
   • Consumer electronics, EVs, wind turbines
   • Defence & aerospace
   • Clean energy technologies
   • Medical imaging
4. • Superconductors, hydrogen storage (future tech)

China’s Dominance

1. Once produced ~90% of global REMs.
2. Currently around ~60%, but still dominates processing & refining.
3. 2010 export curbs (Japan, US, Europe) triggered diversification.
4. Processing dominance gives China strategic leverage.

India’s Current Policy Framework

1. Exploration:
   • Bureau of Mines
2. • Department of Atomic Energy (DAE)
3. Mining & Processing:
   • Dominated by IREL (India) Ltd., PSU under DAE.
4. Monazite beach sand (primary REE source):
   • Monopoly with government entities.
5. • Foundin coastal states.
6. Value chain issue:
   • India focuses on upstream (low-value) processes.
7. • Downstream (high-value) metal extraction & manufacturing done abroad.
8. IREL’s main objective: Thorium extraction for DAE.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Q1. Recently, there has been a concern over the short supply of a group of elements called ‘rare earth metals’. Why? (2012)

1. China, which is the largest producer of these elements, has imposed some restrictions on their export.

2. Other than China, Australia, Canada and Chile, these elements are not found in any country.

3. Rare earth metals are essential for the manufacture of various kinds of electronic items and there is a growing demand for these elements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 2 and 3 only

b) 1 and 3 only

c) 1 and 2 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only