Mining & Processing

How Dysprosium Is Mined and Processed

Dysprosium (Dy) is a rare earth element with global annual production of approximately 1,600 tonnes, primarily from China and Myanmar. Typical ore grades range from 0.01-0.1% Dy2O3.

Mining Methods

Dysprosium is extracted through the following methods, selected based on deposit type and geology:

• Ion-adsorption clay leaching (primary for heavy REE)
• Byproduct of bastnasite/monazite mining

Ore Types and Mineralogy

The principal ore types and mineral sources for Dysprosium include:

• Ion-adsorption clays - highest Dy content
• Xenotime - YPO4
• Monazite

Processing and Beneficiation

Following extraction, Dysprosium ore undergoes the following processing stages:

1. In-situ leaching of ion-adsorption clays
2. Solvent extraction (multi-stage)
3. Molten salt electrolysis

Major Mines and Production Centers

The following are key Dysprosium mining and processing operations worldwide:

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Mining and processing of Dysprosium must comply with environmental regulations governing water use, tailings management, emissions, and land rehabilitation. Increasingly stringent environmental standards are raising production costs but also driving innovation in cleaner extraction technologies. The social license to operate and community engagement have become critical factors in project development, particularly in China where 98% of global production is concentrated.