Researchers have found reserves of rare-earth metals (REMs) to satisfy demand for up to 700 years. Scientists surveyed the -sea mud on the Pacific Ocean floor about 2,000 kilometers southeast of Tokyo. They say their , "has the potential to supply these metals on a -infinite basis to the world". Researchers from two in Tokyo estimate the contains more than 16 million of rare-earth metals. They added there is "great ...for some of the most critically important elements in society".
There are 17 rare-earth metals in the periodic . These chemical elements have relatively names, like europium and terbium. Their uses, applications and demand have increased with our need for high-tech products. REMs are used in electric motors for hybrid vehicles, turbines, hard disc drives, portable electronics, , speakers and many products. Around 90 per cent of REMs used to manufacture electronics come from China. The new discovery near Japan could bring down .
