Plant 'Breakthrough' Could Help Ease Rare Earth Metal Crisis
Summary
Scientists in China have discovered that a fern species, Blechnum orientale, naturally forms tiny crystals containing rare earth elements. This finding could lead to a more environmentally-friendly way to extract these valuable metals. This method, called phytomining, relies on plants to absorb metals from the soil.Key Facts
- The fern Blechnum orientale is known to absorb high levels of metals from the soil and water.
- Researchers found that this fern naturally forms tiny crystals of rare earth elements (REEs).
- Rare earth elements are important for technologies like clean energy and electronics but are hard to extract without harming the environment.
- The discovery could make a plant-based extraction process, called phytomining, more sustainable.
- This method of extraction could help with low global supplies of certain rare earth elements.
- Monazite, the mineral found in the fern, is a key source of rare earth elements.
- The process allows plants to be continually harvested and regrown, ensuring ongoing extraction.
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