Recycling

Thulium Recycling: Current State and Potential

Recycling of Thulium from end-of-life products and manufacturing scrap represents an important secondary supply source. The current global end-of-life recycling rate for Thulium is approximately 0%, reflecting both technical challenges and economic factors in recovery.

Recycling Rate Context

The recycling rate for Thulium is extremely low, with almost all supply coming from primary mining. Developing viable recycling pathways is a priority for supply chain resilience.

Recycling Technologies

Current and emerging recycling technologies for Thulium include mechanical separation, pyrometallurgical recovery, hydrometallurgical extraction, and direct recycling approaches. These processes mirror primary production techniques such as solvent extraction (many stages), adapted for secondary feedstocks. Research efforts focus on improving recovery rates and reducing energy consumption.

Key Recycling Sources

• End-of-life portable x-ray machines products - Recovery potential varies based on product design, Thulium concentration, and collection infrastructure.
• End-of-life laser materials products - Recovery potential varies based on product design, Thulium concentration, and collection infrastructure.
• End-of-life high-temperature superconductors products - Recovery potential varies based on product design, Thulium concentration, and collection infrastructure.
• End-of-life anti-counterfeiting measures products - Recovery potential varies based on product design, Thulium concentration, and collection infrastructure.
• Manufacturing scrap - New scrap from fabrication and processing typically has the highest recovery rates due to known composition and controlled collection.

Circular Economy Opportunities

Given the high supply risk for Thulium, developing robust recycling infrastructure is a strategic priority. The 95% concentration of primary production in China makes secondary supply from recycling an important hedging strategy for consuming nations. Regulatory frameworks such as extended producer responsibility and recycled content mandates are being developed in multiple jurisdictions.