TOKYO, Japan, Apr (AFP): The discovery of potentially millions of tons of valuable "rare earth" elements in sea sludge off Japan has raised hopes that Asia's number-two economy can reduce its dependence on Chinese supply.
But experts warn that extracting the minerals-used in technology ranging from mobile phones to electric vehicles-is both costly and difficult, especially when buried miles deep in the ocean.
A Japanese study published last week revealed an estimated 16 million tons of rare earths, enough to feed global demand on a "semi-infinite" basis, with deposits to last hundreds of years.
Japan ‘rare earth’ haul to cut China reliance
FE Team | Published: April 15, 2018 23:44:16
Japan ‘rare earth’ haul to cut China reliance
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