Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are a set of 17 chemically similar elements crucial for their unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties, which make them essential in the manufacturing of modern technology required for the green revolution.

Fun fact, REE data also plays a role in geochemistry and is included in many of my published manuscripts. The unique distribution patterns of REE within zircon crystals offer clues about the rock's formation environment and history, aiding in understanding geological processes.

These elements are required for a wide array of devices and systems, from powerful permanent magnets in wind turbines and electric vehicle motors to catalytic converters, LED lights, and advanced electronics like smartphones and defense systems. Despite their widespread occurrence in the Earth's crust (the ‘R’ is kind of a misnomer), REEs are rarely found in concentrated and economically exploitable forms, making their extraction and processing challenging both technologically and environmentally.