News Brief: Critical Minerals in Daily Life
Summary
Critical minerals, once limited to a few metals, are now essential components in nearly every aspect of modern life, from smartphones to household appliances. Their importance is amplified by their role in renewable energy, defense, and ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning China’s dominance in their supply and processing.
Key Points
- Ubiquitous in Daily Life: A single smartphone uses over 30 minerals. Household items like LED lamps, ceiling fans, bathroom fixtures, and kitchen appliances all rely on critical minerals and rare earths for functionality.
- Global Demand & Supply Chain Vulnerability: Over 60% of the world’s population uses smartphones. China controls about 80% of global rare-earth production and over 90% of refining, creating significant supply chain risks.
- Renewable Energy & Defense: Minerals like cobalt and lithium are vital for wind turbines and solar panels. Advanced weapons systems, including F-35 jets and submarines, require hundreds to thousands of kilograms of rare earths.
- Geopolitical Tensions: China’s export controls have disrupted global manufacturing. In response, the US and allies like Australia are forming agreements to secure alternative supply chains, though building capacity may take years.
新闻简报：关键矿物如何影响日常生活
总结
关键矿物，从最初的少数几种金属，现已发展成为现代生活几乎所有方面（从智能手机到家用电器）不可或缺的组成部分。它们在可再生能源、国防以及持续的地缘政治紧张局势中的作用，特别是中国在其供应和加工方面的主导地位，进一步凸显了其重要性。
关键点
- 无处不在的日常应用： 一部智能手机使用超过30种矿物。LED灯、吊扇、浴室设备和厨房电器等家居用品都依赖关键矿物和稀土来发挥功能。
- 全球需求与供应链脆弱性： 全球超过60%的人口使用智能手机。中国控制了全球约80%的稀土产量和超过90%的精炼能力，造成了显著的供应链风险。
- 可再生能源与国防： 钴、锂等矿物对风力涡轮机和太阳能电池板至关重要。先进的武器系统，包括F-35战斗机和潜艇，需要数百至数千公斤的稀土。
- 地缘政治紧张： 中国的出口管制已扰乱全球制造业。作为回应，美国与澳大利亚等盟友正在达成协议以确保替代供应链，但建立产能可能需要数年时间。
Original Article Link: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-11-21/how-critical-minerals-rare-earths-are-used-in-everyday-life/105980350