COST EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS OF RARE EARTH ELEMENT SUPPLY CHAIN POLICY
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Authors
Reynolds, James A.
Subjects
rare earth miners
supply chains
China
recycling
rare earth elements
REM
East Asia
supply chains
China
recycling
rare earth elements
REM
East Asia
Advisors
Sullivan, Ryan S.
Mortlock, Robert F.
Date of Issue
2024-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The purpose of the research is to investigate and analyze the cost-effectiveness of alternative sources of rare earth elements (REM) in preparation for and in the early stages of a conflict in East Asia. This research explores the criticality of REM, their sources, and the factors that would inhibit their use during an East Asian conflict. This research is conducted by analyzing open-source scholarly, professional, and technical written research. Additionally, this topic is explored through analysis, policy, and law. This study employs cost-effectiveness analysis to explore the viability of three courses of action available to mitigate this shortage. After investigating these subjects at length, this research concludes that the current viability of supply chains that mine, transport, and process these materials would no longer be viable or reliable during conflict. This research further concludes that full-scale domestic production at all stages is the most cost-effective investment for this scenario. Additionally, this work highlights limitations and makes recommendations as well as suggests areas for future study.
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Thesis
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.