Xenotime
Xenotime
Xenotime is a rare earth phosphate mineral, similar to monazite but dominant in Yttrium and Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs) like Dysprosium and Terbium. It is the most significant hard-rock source of heavy rare earths.
Processing
DifficultyHigh
Processing & Metallurgy
Like monazite, it is a phosphate and often radioactive. Processing requires aggressive chemical cracking. However, its high value due to HREE content makes it economically attractive despite the costs.