Includes bibliographical references and index.
Due to license restrictions, this resource is available to EPA employees and authorized contractors only

1. History and discovery of rare Earth materials -- 2. Properties and applications of rare Earth oxides, alloys, and compounds -- 3. Properties and applications of rare Earth-based superconductive magnetic materials -- 4. Rare Earth materials and films best suited for various applications, such as lasers, electro-optic sensors, and magneto-optic devices -- 5. Critical roles of rare Earth elements in the manufacturing of iron, steel, and other alloys suited for industrial applications -- 6. Applications of rare Earth intermetallic compounds, hydrides, and ceramics -- 7. Contributions of rare Earth materials in the development of the glass industry, crystal technology, glass polishing, electro-optical devices, and the chemical industry -- 8. Industrial applications of pure rare Earth metals and related alloys. "Rare earth materials (REMs) are recognized as a unique group of materials because of their unusual physical and chemical properties. REMs are essential for a diverse array of high-technology applications and key defense systems. This book describes the unique characteristics and applications of 17 REM, as well as their chemical, electrical, thermal, and optical characteristics, with an emphasis on physical and chemical properties. It also covers extraction, refining, and processing"--