In a groundbreaking development that could reshape the rare earth elements (REEs) landscape, researchers in Ukraine have uncovered a promising avenue for extracting these critical materials from an unconventional source: phosphogypsum. This byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production has long been considered a waste material, primarily repurposed for construction purposes. However, a recent study led by A. P. Mukhachev from the M. S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of NAS of Ukraine suggests that phosphogypsum could become a significant source of REEs, addressing the acute shortage driven by the rapid growth of modern, knowledge-intensive industries.
The study, published in *Mineral Resources of Ukraine* (Мінеральні ресурси України), demonstrates that treating phosphogypsum with solutions of carbonate compounds based on ammonium, potassium, and sodium can yield valuable chemical compounds, fertilizers, and salts. Moreover, this process enriches the raw material with rare earth elements up to 5% and strontium up to 12%. “The conversion of phosphogypsum with these carbonates not only produces profitable byproducts but also significantly concentrates rare earth elements, making their extraction economically viable,” Mukhachev explained.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Rare earth elements are crucial for the manufacturing of high-performance magnets, batteries, and other components essential for renewable energy technologies. The current global supply chain for REEs is dominated by a few countries, creating vulnerabilities and driving up costs. By tapping into phosphogypsum, industries could access a more diverse and potentially more stable source of these critical materials.
The research highlights the potential to separate the total concentrate of rare earth elements into lighter and medium-heavy groups, further refining them into paired concentrates like lanthanum-cerium and neodymium-praseodymium. These elements are particularly valuable in the energy sector. “Given the high cost of individual rare earth elements, particularly neodymium, lanthanum, and gadolinium, it is advisable to separate them into more valuable products,” Mukhachev noted.
Beyond the extraction of REEs, the study also underscores the agricultural benefits. The mineral fertilizers derived from phosphogypsum, such as NH₄NO₃, (NH₄)₂SO₄, and Ca(NO₃)₂, are nearly cost-free, offering a sustainable and economical solution for farmers. This dual benefit—enhancing both industrial and agricultural sectors—positions phosphogypsum as a versatile resource with far-reaching commercial impacts.
The research not only presents a comprehensive phosphogypsum conversion technology but also offers methods for the extraction and distribution of rare earth elements. The high efficiency of the technological solutions developed in this study makes it a strong candidate for implementation in Ukraine and beyond. As the world seeks sustainable and innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for rare earth elements, this study could pave the way for future developments in the field, potentially reshaping the global supply chain and bolstering energy sector advancements.