Rare Earth Metals

Ames Laboratory -
Rare-earth Center of the Nation

Considered a national center for rare earths, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Ames Laboratory is the go-to source for expertise in the synthesis, analysis and engineering of rare-earth metals and their alloys.

Rare-earth elements are critical components in modern electronic technologies, ranging from TVs, fluorescent light bulbs, cell phones and computers to "green" magnets in electric motors that power hybrid cars and generators used in wind turbines. Rare earths are essential to medical diagnosis equipment and almost all military systems. Ames Laboratory’s expertise in the field of rare-earths has captured international attention as concern has grown over China’s near-monopoly of the global rare-earth supply.

 With a history spanning more than 60 years of pioneering work in rare-earth research, the Ames Laboratory and its team of internationally recognized rare-earth experts is uniquely positioned to provide the knowledge, expertise and training necessary to help ensure a global leadership position for the United States in rare-earth research, development and applications.

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Distilled Gadolinium