Lanthanum
Used in catalytic converters, optical glass, and rechargeable batteries—an anchor material for emissions control and energy storage.
Properties
Lanthanum (La): The Gatekeeper of the Lanthanides
Lanthanum was first isolated in 1839 by the Swedish chemist Carl Gustaf Mosander while he was separating cerium salts. Its name comes from the Greek word lanthanein, meaning "to lie hidden," reflecting how it was concealed among other rare earths.
Although chemically "light" and relatively abundant, lanthanum plays an outsized role in modern industry. It improves catalytic activity in petroleum refining and automotive emissions control, while its optical properties make it valuable in high‑quality lenses and specialty glass. In energy storage, lanthanum is a key component of nickel‑metal hydride (NiMH) batteries used in hybrid vehicles and grid applications.
Key Applications
Market Data
Lanthanum (La): Stable Demand from Catalysts and Energy Storage
Catalyst demand anchors long‑term consumption in refining and emissions control.
NiMH batteries remain resilient in hybrid fleets and industrial storage use cases.
Relative abundance supports predictable supply, but concentration of processing creates strategic dependence.
Risks & Substitutes
Relatively stable but concentrated supply.
Substitutes for some catalytic applications: other light rare earths.
Demand linked to automotive and electronic cycles.