Page added on May 3, 2012
In this week’s episode of R-Squared Energy TV, I talk about the significance of China’s dominance of rare earth element production, and the conversion of pyrolysis oil into fuel.
The questions answered this week are:
1. Can you discuss the uses of ‘rare earth’ elements in the production of renewable energies (i.e., wind and solar)? Furthermore, can you comment on the supply of rare earth elements? I recently watched this video from Real Clear Energy. Is it accurate that China controls 97% of the current supplies? What implications does this have on growth of hybrid transportation, the wind and the solar industry in the USA?
2. I was watching your reports and was wondering your opinion about the feasibility of pyrolysis. I’ve seen a lot of companies advertising that they have take plastic or tires and produce 80+% and 45% pyrolysis oil respectively. Is that accurate? You also mention upgrading of pyrolysis oil, are there any companies out there who can do it on a commercially viable process? If so could you point me in the right direction?
2 Comments on "Rare Earth Elements and Pyrolysis Oil"
Rick on Thu, 3rd May 2012 11:50 pm
#1- There are no trade offs, with 7 billion, going to 10. Humans are screwed.
#2 – BS, it’s that simple.
BillT on Fri, 4th May 2012 3:27 am
1. Rare earths are going to be a limiting factor, but oil is the biggest one. No oil = no mining to produce anything.
2. Pure bullshit. Tires can be shredded and used in products and they can be burned with all kinds of toxic smoke, but they cannot be transformed into gasoline. Too bad, as they are everywhere and will be still here in 1,000 years.