The extraction and processing of rare earth elements (REEs) pose several health risks due to the inherent toxic nature of these elements and the chemicals used in their extraction. Some of the key health risks include:
Occupational Health Risks
- Inhalation Risks: The most well-known health effect from inhaling REE particulate is pulmonary fibrosis, or scarring of the lungs.
- Ionizing Radiation: REE deposits often contain naturally occurring uranium and thorium, which emit ionizing radiation and can lead to various health issues, including cancer.
- Exposure to Hazardous Minerals: REE mining sites may also contain other hazardous minerals like asbestos, lead, arsenic, and crystalline silica, which pose significant health risks.
General Health Risks
- Prenatal Exposure: Long-term exposure to environments with high REE content can lead to REE crossing the placental barrier, potentially causing intrauterine damage.
- Environmental Contaminants: The mining process releases pollutants like cadmium and lead into the environment, posing health risks through long-term exposure.
- Cancer and Other Diseases: Exposure to radioactive materials associated with REEs can lead to cancers (e.g., bone, skin) and other health issues (e.g., cardiovascular, respiratory problems).
Environmental Health Impacts
- Toxic Waste Generation: The mining process generates large amounts of toxic waste, including dust, waste gas, wastewater, and radioactive residues, contaminating air, water, and soil.
- Water Pollution: Mining chemicals and pollutants can contaminate groundwater and surface water, affecting both human health and ecosystems.
Overall, the extraction and processing of REEs present significant environmental and health challenges due to the toxic nature of the elements themselves and the byproducts of mining operations.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-health-risks-associated-with-the-extraction-and-processing-of-rare-earth-elements/
