Energy Fuels Inc., based in Lakewood, has reached a significant milestone in the production of high-tech materials that could change how the United States builds electric cars and defense equipment. The company announced that its high-purity dysprosium oxide has passed strict quality tests by a major South Korean car manufacturer. This means the material is officially ready to be used in the powerful magnets that drive modern technology.
Dysprosium is a “heavy” rare earth element that acts as a vital additive for permanent magnets. These magnets are essential because they do not lose their strength easily, even under extreme conditions. The material is used in a variety of important tools, including:
- Electric and hybrid vehicle motors
- Advanced robotics and commercial machinery
- Military drones, missiles, and jet engines
- Control rods for nuclear reactors used by the Navy
This achievement is particularly important because the supply of these minerals is currently controlled almost entirely by China. In early 2025, China placed limits on the export of several rare earth elements, making it difficult for other countries to access them. By refining these materials at its White Mesa Mill in Utah, Energy Fuels is helping to rebuild a supply chain within the United States, reducing the country’s reliance on foreign sources for national security and green energy needs.
The company’s testing showed that their product reached a purity level of 99.9 percent, which actually exceeds the 99.5 percent purity required by the automotive industry. This success follows a previous announcement where the company also qualified its “light” rare earth elements for use in magnets, making it the first U.S. company to have both types of materials ready for the market.
Looking ahead, Energy Fuels plans to expand its operations significantly. The company is preparing to start production on other rare minerals, such as terbium and samarium, which are used in radar, sonar, and high-temperature engines. They expect to have large-scale production facilities running in Utah by the end of 2026. This move is expected to strengthen the U.S. economy and ensure that the parts needed for future technology are available domestically.
Source: Press Release
