Energy Fuels Inc. has successfully produced its first kilogram of 99.9% pure terbium oxide at its White Mesa Mill in Utah, using domestically sourced monazite ore. The material meets specifications required by global rare earth permanent magnet manufacturers, positioning the company as a potential key supplier in the U.S. critical minerals supply chain.
The terbium oxide production follows the company's recent achievement of producing nearly 30 kilograms of 99.9% pure dysprosium oxide at the same facility. Both terbium and dysprosium are classified as heavy rare earth elements critical for manufacturing high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and various defense applications. This production milestone supports Energy Fuels' broader strategy to establish a secure domestic supply of these essential materials, reducing reliance on foreign sources, particularly China, which currently dominates global rare earth production.
According to the company's announcement, pilot-scale production will continue at approximately one kilogram per week. Energy Fuels plans to expand to commercial-scale output as early as 2027, with targets of producing up to 12 tonnes of terbium and 35 tonnes of dysprosium annually. These production goals are tied to future circuit expansions at the White Mesa Mill, which would also increase broader rare earth oxide capacity. The facility, located in Utah, is the only fully licensed and operating conventional uranium processing facility in the United States, giving Energy Fuels unique infrastructure advantages for processing rare earth elements alongside its uranium operations.
The successful production of high-purity terbium oxide has significant implications for multiple industries and national security. Rare earth permanent magnets are essential components in electric vehicle motors, offshore wind turbines, and various military technologies including guidance systems and communications equipment. By developing domestic production capabilities, Energy Fuels contributes to supply chain resilience for clean energy technologies and defense applications. The company's progress aligns with broader U.S. government initiatives to secure critical mineral supply chains, as outlined in various executive orders and legislation aimed at reducing dependence on foreign sources for materials vital to economic and national security.
Energy Fuels' production achievements come as global demand for rare earth elements continues to grow, driven by the transition to clean energy and electrification of transportation. The company's ability to produce these materials from U.S.-sourced ore represents a technological and strategic advancement in domestic critical minerals processing. For more information about Energy Fuels' operations and corporate details, visit http://www.energyfuels.com. Additional news and updates relating to the company are available through its newsroom at http://ibn.fm/UUUU.
