Comparative Analysis of Traditional and Innovative Methods for Rare Earth Element Extraction

This article addresses the application of traditional and innovative methods for rare earth elements extraction, with a focus on their technological efficiency and environmental safety. It discusses approaches based on hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes, as well as emerging solutions, including bioleaching, hydrogen reduction, electrochemical recovery, the use of ionic liquids, and membrane-sorption technologies. The study emphasizes that modern methods offer significant potential for reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing the resource efficiency of the sector. The comparative analysis highlights the need to integrate both traditional and innovative solutions into sustainable production chains, especially in the context of growing global demand for rare earth elements and the increasing importance of technological independence.