Rare earth elements are essential for modern technologies, yet their availability is limited and strategically sensitive. The search for viable alternatives therefore represents a key challenge in contemporary materials science.
In the February issue of Vesmír, an article by Mgr. Martin Friák, Ph.D. addresses the possibilities of replacing rare earth elements in materials applications. Using magnesium alloys as a case study, the article outlines why rare earth elements are difficult to substitute in certain cases and which conditions must be met to identify alternative solutions for specific material properties.
The focus is placed on the relationship between chemical composition, crystal structure, and deformation mechanisms that govern the ductility of metallic materials. It is shown that replacing a single element is generally insufficient and that effective solutions often require combinations of multiple alloying elements. A key role is played by the integration of experimental research with advanced theoretical modelling, quantum-mechanical calculations, and data-driven analysis.
The article further demonstrates that successful substitutions are limited to specific material functionalities and cannot be directly generalized to other applications involving rare earth elements. The text provides insight into both the possibilities and constraints of replacing rare earth elements in the development of new, more sustainable materials.
The article was supported by the Czech Academy of Sciences, in particular, via the Praemium Academiae and the Strategie AV21 program entitled „The power of objects: Materiality between past and future “.
👉 The full article “Can Rare Earth Elements Be Replaced?” is available online at:
https://vesmir.cz/cz/casopis/archiv-casopisu/2026/cislo-2/lze-nahradit-prvky-vzacnych-zemin.html
