Ann: Mt Edon drilling intersects high grade Rubidium and Lithium, page-15

Here is some Rubidium info for those interested

Thought it might be some good base info from research report for those that don't know much about Rubidium yet. To me it still looks like there are several sectors that are expecting growth and that Rubidium is specifically applicable to. All info indicates that there is a heap of collaborative research being done between the producers and end users to discover new uses for it. It really is very well timed for Everest to be entering the Rubidium game at this time, especially as it is not Everest's only focus and risks are mitigated by the other projects they are exploring/developing, so it also has a good sense to it.

IMO DYOR

Rubidium is an alkali metal that is silvery-white in appearance and possesses physical and chemical properties similar to those of other alkali metals, such as potassium and cesium. It assists in enhancing the performance of batteries in various applications. It also aids in improving the overall performance of electronic components, such as atomic frequency standards, magnetometers, and superconductors. As it is widely utilized in radiometric dating techniques that aid in the determination of geological ages, the demand for rubidium is increasing across the globe.

At present, the rising demand for smaller and more efficient electronic devices among individuals around the world is bolstering the growth of the market. Besides this, the increasing popularity of atomic research and development (R&D), especially in precision timekeeping, is strengthening the growth of the market. In line with this, the growing demand for rubidium for the development of superconductors to enhance their efficiency and performance is offering a positive market outlook. Apart from this, the increasing manufacturing of electrical-signal generators worldwide is offering lucrative growth opportunities to industry investors. In addition, the rising need for enhanced telecommunication systems across the globe is supporting the growth of the market. Furthermore, the increasing utilization of rubidium in semiconductor manufacturing, specifically in ion implantation processes, is propelling the growth of the market.

Rubidium Market Trends/Drivers:

Rising energy storage technologies

The rising need for effective energy storage solutions due to the increasing popularity of renewable energy sources is contributing to the growth of the market. In addition, emerging energy storage technologies comprise innovative approaches to storing and managing energy efficiently. Besides this, these technologies, such as advanced batteries and energy storage systems, aim to mitigate the intermittency of renewable sources like solar and wind. Emerging energy storage solutions, such as rubidium-ion batteries, leverage novel materials and designs to enhance energy density, cycle life, and charge-discharge rates. These technologies contribute to grid stability and reduce reliance on traditional fossil-fuel-based power generation by storing excess energy during periods of high production and releasing it during peak demand.

increasing demand for medical applications

Rubidium is widely utilized in cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) scans to diagnose heart conditions. Moreover, it allows for rapid imaging without prolonged exposure to radiation. The rising adoption of this metal due to the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among the masses across the globe is supporting the growth of the market. In addition, there is a rise in the demand for non-invasive and accurate diagnostic tools among healthcare facilities worldwide. It is also compatible with certain pharmaceutical compounds that enhance its applicability in targeted cancer treatments and radiopharmaceutical production. Moreover, the rising awareness about early disease detection, along with the increasing popularity of personalized medicine that allows medical professionals to tailor treatments based on individual needs, is offering a positive market outlook.

Growing utilization in scientific research and atomic clocks

The growing utilization of this metal in scientific research, especially in the field of atomic clocks, is a key factor influencing the market positively. Atomic clocks based on rubidium technology offer unparalleled precision in timekeeping, which makes them essential for various applications, such as satellite navigation, telecommunications synchronization, and fundamental physics experiments. It also plays a crucial role in advancing these scientific and technological frontiers. Apart from this, the accuracy of these clocks depends on the stable oscillation frequency of rubidium atoms, that enhance their reliability. In line with this, the rising demand for precise timekeeping is contributing to the growth of the market.

Specialty glass holds the biggest market share

Specialty glass represented the largest segment. Rubidium finds application in specialty glass formulations to enhance specific optical and mechanical properties. It can modify its refractive index, resulting in lenses and optical components with improved light transmission and dispersion control. Additionally, it can lower the softening point of glass, which makes it valuable for manufacturing glass-to-metal seals in electronic and aerospace industries. It is widely used in scientific instruments, lasers, and fiber optics due to its ability to tailor light propagation characteristics. Furthermore, its low thermal expansion coefficient makes it suitable for precision mirrors and coatings.

Competitive Landscape:

Key market players in the industry are investing significantly in research and development (R&D) activities to explore new applications. This includes investigating its potential in emerging technologies like energy storage, advanced materials, and quantum computing, that aim to broaden its utility and contribute to market expansion. In line with this, companies are continuously working to improve production processes and refining extraction and purification methods to enhance the purity and yield of the product. Apart from this, many firms are collaborating with research institutions, universities, and other industry players to foster innovation and share expertise. These partnerships facilitate the development of novel applications, which is offering a positive market outlook.