Symposium on Rare Earth Materials Keynote Address

Rare earth dependent technologies, including mobile devices and hybrid cars, are nearly 100 percent reliant on Chinese-sourced materials. In recent years China has managed to supply the world's demand for rare earths. However, China's internal consumption of its own rare earths are forcing it to restrict what it exports to the world, leading to extraordinarily tight supply markets and outright shortages. Global requirements for rare earths continue to grow, fueled by the development of green energy technologies. Molycorp President and CEO Mark Smith will discuss the global outlook for rare earth markets; the groundbreaking technologies being built into Molycorp's manufacturing supply chain; the economics supporting Molycorp's business plan; and how Molycorp will help the U.S. successfully compete in global rare earth markets. Local Chapter of Materials Research Society Annual Symposium.

Morning speakers will focus on the technical applications of rare earth materials and include technology directors from Arnold Magnetic Technologies at 10:00 a.m. and ETREMA Products at 11:00 a.m. Afternoon speakers will discuss the history and economics of rare earth materials and include a principle research scientist at the General Motors R&D at 1:00 p.m. in addition to the 1:45 keynote.

Registration for the symposium is free and required to attend the luncheon: [url=http://www.stuorg.iastate.edu/mrs/symp.htm]www.stuorg.iastate.edu/mrs/symp.htm[/url]