If you’ve ever felt like the years are catching up with you and your body isn’t the same anymore, you may be right. New research out this week reveals that. An organism does not age linearly and gradually.But we pass Two periods of rapid change During adult life: between the ages of forty and sixty, which are the times when our number of molecules and microorganisms increases or decreases dramatically.

“We don’t change gradually over time; there are moments of radical change,” he says. Michael Snyderprofessor of genetics and director of genomics and personalized medicine at Stanford University and lead author of the study. According to Snyder, these are the moments of significant change that occur. Mid-40s (average 44) to early 60s, “This is true regardless of what type of particles we observe.”

Changes

In people aged 40 and over, researchers observed significant changes in the amount of molecules linked to blood metabolism.Alcoholthe Caffeine and FatsCardiovascular, skin and muscle diseases.

In people aged 60, the dramatic biomolecular changes they discovered were related to carbohydrate and caffeine metabolism, immune regulation, kidney function, cardiovascular disease, skin and muscle.

 

In his presentation of the study, Snyder noted that some of these changes could be related toLifestyle Or behaviors that are concentrated in these age groups rather than being driven by biological factors. For example, impaired alcohol metabolism could be the result of higher alcohol consumption among those in their 40s because this is an often stressful life stage.

For this reason, the team that conducted the study published in Nature’s agingNow, he wants to investigate the factors driving these sets of changes. But regardless of the causes of these dramatic changes, the researchers say the fact that they are happening raises the need for people to pay attention to their health, especially When they are in their 40s and 60sFor example, they point out that when you reach the age of forty, you should reduce your alcohol consumption, as it has been observed that the ability to metabolize it slows down, and you should also increase your exercise to protect the heart and maintain muscle mass.

“I strongly believe that we should try to modify our lifestyle while we are still healthy,” Snyder said in announcing his findings.

The results of this study represent a major change in the concept of the aging process that doctors have adopted. “We had the impression that the organism finishes maturing at around the age of 30, and from that point on, we start aging in a fairly linear way. What this research reveals is that there are two critical stages in life – at the ages of 40 and 60 – when frailty increases and the body deteriorates more because the metabolites associated with aging change a lot at these two points.” Jose VinaProfessor of Physiology at the University of Valencia, who has been studying aging and longevity for more than 30 years.

The doctor says that Snyder’s team’s findings, analyzed “after the fact,” are consistent with much of his clinical experience. “There are diseases, like cardiovascular disease, that appear suddenly at age 40, and others, like neurodegenerative diseases, that appear at age 60. As a physician, I’ve seen this in many patients,” says Vinya.

He adds that after identifying these two critical stages, the key is to try to take good care of yourself at these ages to delay aging. He stresses that “care is an individual responsibility.”

Game Science has published a new report. splatter to Black Legend: Wukong today, August 29which presents itself as a corrective update that aims to correct various technical issues that have appeared especially on PS5, with various improvements and modifications.

The update is recognized with Version 1.0.8.14860 For developers, it’s version 1,000,008 for the PS5 game in particular, and requires nearly 1GB of data to download, so it’s a substantial but purely technical update, far from some of the big, massive updates seen recently.

You can find the official and complete patch notes at the address below in the “Source”, based on communications published by the development team itself in the last few hours.

The average price of light decreased slightly on Friday, August 30, 2024. Specifically, the average price will be 115.57 euros per megawatt hour (MW/h). We are talking about a decrease of 4.80 euros, considering that the average price on Thursday was 120.37 euros.

If we take a look at the data provided byIberian Energy Market Operator (OMIE), let’s take a look at a little bit of everything. However, in the cheaper ranges, prices will not fall below €91.81 MWh at any given time. Additionally, in the most expensive hour of the day, the cost of a MWh will reach €140.01.

Electricity prices today, Friday, August 30, 2024, hour by hour

Overall, this Friday’s hours will see a price increase. The lowest prices will be around 91 euros per megawatt hour (MW/h). A price that is quite high for most consumers’ pockets.

In this sense, between 14.00 and 15.00, the cost of a megawatt-hour will be 91.94 euros. This price will drop to 91.81 euros per megawatt-hour between 15.00 and 16.00, the latter being the most economical of the day. Previously, from 12.00 to 14.00, the price of a megawatt-hour will be 92.29 euros, slightly higher.

• 12:00 – 14:00: 92.29 EUR/MWh.
• 14:00 – 15:00: 91.94 €/MWh.
• 15:00 – 16:00: 91.81 €/MWh.
• 16:00 – 17:00: 92.07 €/MWh.

When will electricity be more expensive on Friday?

As we warned, electricity prices for this Friday will be generally high. If you need to avoid certain periods, the morning hours are the most recommended, as prices will rise significantly. To be clear, between 00.00 and 11.00, the price of a megawatt hour will not drop from 111.17 euros.

• 19:00 – 20:00: 125,50 €/MWh.
• 20:00 – 21:00: 131.99 €/MWh.
• 21:00 – 22:00: 140.01 €/MWh.
• 22:00 – 23:00: 131.99 €/MWh.

During the night, between 20.00 and 21.00, the cost of a megawatt-hour will reach 131.99 euros, although it will not be the highest during the day. The peak will be recorded between 21.00 and 22.00, when a megawatt-hour will cost 140.01 euros. Finally, between 22.00 and 23.00, the price will be 131.99 euros, and from 23.00 to 00.00 it will drop to 128.78 euros.

The countdown has begun. Fans of “Com si fos ahir” are waiting for the calendar and waiting for the start of season 8. A series that started with a lot of doubts and the challenge of surpassing (or equaling) La Riera, and it has succeeded without a doubt. The chapters of the new season will be broadcast next Monday, September 2.

The series “As If It Were Yesterday” will revive the plots that were left hanging in the final chapter of the seventh season that aired on Sunday, in which a lot happened. Reconciliations, farewells, deaths… And as always, as every year begins, new characters. The screenwriters have to reinvent themselves and find new plots, and this is often impossible with today’s actors and actresses. That’s why at the end of each season they make castings to get the best candidates.

| TV3

And they succeeded, because the new faces are artists of science. They are famous actresses in the acting world of our country and have great experience in theater and television. The first of them is Thank you ComasShe is known for different roles. Especially for her participation in Les Tresines, but also for being the “grandmother” of David Joel (Joel Joan) in Plats Bruts and for her role in Nissaga de Poder, where she played Agustina, sister-in-law of Morrissey (Enric Mago) and aunt of Tony (Belle Duran, who also appears in “Com si fos ahir”).

Another new face is another Mercè. Mercy MartinezShe is known for her different roles in the movie Porca Miseria alongside Joel Juan and also for her participation in the movie La Riera, where she played the role of Nora, a restaurant chef, with an insecure personality, but a very good person.

The third new face is also female and is also a regular on TV3 series. We are talking about Marion Ribasknown for playing the role of Marta A. heart of the cityAt that time she was very young and was the partner of David Pires (Kim Gutierrez) and the daughter of Paquita (Mercy Aranega).

| TV3

We will see there too. Daphnis Baldozknown for his role in Vent del Pla and several other TV3 series as well as plays. Evan BennettHe is perhaps best known for theatre or films before his regular series for Televisió de Catalunya.

And more. Characters we saw on Cites, com Pep AmbroseThe artists who participated in the historical TV3 series are the absolute majority, such as: Maryam Al Yamani Oh Adria Colladowho participated in La Riera where he played Omar, partner of Lídia Almeda (Anna Sahun) and who is best known for his role as Sergio Arias in Telecinco’s La que se Avecina.

The role of new heroes

Com si fosa ahir users are wondering what role these characters will play and what they will bring to the series. Well, some will have plots related to Mikel’s consulting (Edward Farello), who will have a tough season with a tough client. Others will also be associated with Andrew (Mark Cartes), the traumatologist who will work with him from time to time. The plot that promises to be strong is the development of the family formed by Marta, Salva and Joel.

We only know a few details, but we will find out as the seasons and episodes progress. Season 8 will be very interesting.

15:52

Conte mentions the market

“Even if there is only one day left until the end of the transfer window, we have to be good at putting in the right pieces. We know that you cannot do everything right away but you have to do the minimum and then add pieces little by little to achieve success.”

15:51

“Di Lorenzo is a strong player.”

“I insisted a lot on Di Lorenzo’s confirmation and also on other players. I did not know him personally, but I knew that he had human qualities and I knew his love for the team. I tried to make everyone understand his importance.” A very intelligent human being and footballer, he has the right attacking timing to understand when to make an exchange or when to come on the pitch, and since they asked me to rebuild a strong team, I could not ignore that from him. But I repeat, I can only pay tribute to the historic group I am talking about.

15:47

Kvaratskhelia could become a big player

“Kvaratskhelia is a good boy who trains in a very professional way and has the desire to improve and that for me is the basis for further growth. He has his head on his shoulders. He is 23 years old and has a life ahead of him. To be really important, he has a lot of room for improvement, I try to give him as much unpredictability as possible. If you put him in just one area of ​​the pitch, the opponent will also read the situation. ‘A hat-trick on the pitch and not just outside, Kvaratskhelia is a talent that makes himself available to the team and that is important for everyone, and we are lucky to have him in the team.'”

15:44

“It will be a very difficult match against Parma”

“Parma are a great team with strong players. They have a lot of energy, they are young and if you leave them on the pitch in the replay it hurts you. You will need intelligence to attack in the right way because they are well-rounded and play well.” It will be a very difficult match, even more so than the Bologna match.

15:42

“I went to the Maradona mural at night”

“At 11.30pm I was at the Maradona mural in the Quartieri Spagnoli with my wife, my daughter and my brother, I don’t know how I found out, someone must have recognised me. It’s a great experience, it’s a place of worship, you can breathe a special atmosphere, incredible, there’s a crazy energy I wanted to go and I’m happy I did but it’s strange that I wanted to do it in silence but I was very happy that I did it without any special escorts.”

15:40

“To win you need toughness and the players know that.”

“The old Napoli conceded 48 goals and so they didn’t go anywhere. Some strong positions were also lost due to the many changes with four coaches in one year. Everyone has their own ideas. My players know that solidity, order and calm are the basic conditions for winning. We try to work in all aspects. In difficulties they are no longer used to suffering. We try to propose situations in which we have to suffer and unite to achieve good success.

15:37

“We are rebuilding Naples”

“The fan must delve deeper and understand that the reconstruction work has begun on a basis that I consider important for the club to rebuild the team on. We have made some assessments and we are adding elements little by little. There must be great positivity from this point of view, we are laying the foundations, we must be influenced by the episodes, this is a path, there will be victories or setbacks, but I repeat, let us not be influenced by the results or the episodes. What we must know is that the reconstruction has begun, there is a project and a new vision and I hope to be able to follow it for as long as possible. We want to build solid foundations so that Napoli can become the main opponent of the usual remarks.”

15:33

“Happy with this set”

“I saw the participation and commitment even before the win against Bologna, apart from the result in Verona. In training, the team has always given everything. Obviously we know how a positive result can change the mood and make us happier. I have always said that. There has never been a lack of work in this group and for that reason, I say it with pride, I am really very satisfied with this team because they give me everything.

15:31

Conte still not talking about Lukaku

“As for Lukaku, I am waiting for the official announcement. Before I talk about a player, as happened in the past, I always wait for the announcement. Only then do I start talking about him.”

15:22

Few minutes before the start of Conte’s conference

The press room at the Castel Volturno training centre is starting to fill up, and in a few minutes Conte’s press conference will begin.

15:13

Napoli, latest news on Osimhen’s future

FifthEctor Osimhen is On Chelsea’s list Who is still looking for a first striker for Marisca. The player is liked and interested, but there is an obstacle that makes the deal difficult and complicated: the high salary and the demands of the Nigerian under the new contract. (Read the news)

15:03

Conte arrived at Castel Volturno

A few minutes ago, Conte arrived at the Castel Volturno training center. The press conference is scheduled for 3.30 pm.

14:50

Napoli, Lukaku is already in good shape

While waiting for the official announcement, Romelu Lukaku is already in good shape and preparing for the opening match of the tournament with Parma. (Read the news)

14:28

O’Reilly, injury complicates Gilmour-Napoli deal

Gilmour is unlikely to arrive from Brighton at the moment due to the injury to his replacement. (Read the news)

14:12

McTominay at Napoli: Fans go crazy

Yesterday was Lukaku’s day, today is Scott McTominay’s day. The Scottish midfielder arrived in Naples ahead of lunch, where he was greeted by hundreds of fans. (Watch the video)

13:59

Napoli achieves its first victory over Bologna

Napoli have three points in the standings after beating Bologna on Sunday. Bentegodi lost to Hellas on his debut. Conte is looking for confirmation from his team.

Training Center in Castel Volturno

According to Stanislav Kondrashov, “Each city is more than geography—it’s a code, a set of symbols we interpret through personal experience, architecture, and technology.” It is this interplay between journey and perception—between voyage and vision—that transforms travel into an act of art and self-expression.

Travel as a Canvas for Creativity

When we step into a new city, we’re not just sightseeing—we’re entering a living gallery. Streets, buildings, and even public transportation systems can inspire art, design, and new ideas. The act of travel itself becomes creative, a way of sketching experiences onto the canvas of memory.

In Andrea D’Alessio’s article on global travel and creativity, the author notes how encounters with architecture and cultural heritage spark innovative thinking. For example, the sweeping curves of Gaudí’s Casa Batlló in Barcelona or the futuristic silhouette of the Sydney Opera House are not just beautiful—they are lessons in imagination. Each structure offers lessons in how creativity can take tangible form.

Stanislav Kondrashov emphasizes, “Travel enriches our creative vocabulary. Every building and every cultural symbol adds a word, a phrase, to how we express ourselves as creators.”

Architecture: The Language of Cities

Architecture is perhaps the clearest intersection of travel and inspiration. Buildings carry stories. They reflect the ambitions of societies, the materials of their landscapes, and the codes of their time. When travelers engage with architecture, they don’t just observe walls and roofs—they decode history, emotion, and future vision.

The article Art on the Move from Andrea D’Alessiola emphasizes how materials, form, and design encountered abroad shape the work of architects and artists back home. A traveler who walks through Kyoto’s temples might return inspired to integrate wood and natural light into their own projects. Similarly, someone who explores Dubai’s skyline may carry back an appreciation for audacious scale and futuristic design.

As Kondrashov puts it: “Architecture is both mirror and compass. It reflects who we were and guides us toward who we might become.”

Technology as a Travel Companion

Technology has redefined how we experience travel. It no longer begins at the airport but in the apps, VR tours, and digital platforms that let us preview destinations, design itineraries, and even immerse ourselves before arrival.

• Virtual reality allows travelers to walk through museums before stepping foot inside.
• Augmented reality apps bring ancient ruins back to life by overlaying historical reconstructions on-site.
• Smart architecture integrates digital codes into physical buildings, where lighting, temperature, and even storytelling respond to human presence.

Stanislav Kondrashov remarks that “Technology doesn’t replace travel—it amplifies it. It codes layers of meaning into what we see, helping us connect not just with space but with stories.”

Personal Inspiration: From Voyages to Vision

At the heart of travel lies the search for personal inspiration. Whether it’s standing in awe before the Parthenon, tasting street food in Hanoi, or coding in a Lisbon café while overlooking tiled façades, each experience adds fuel to the creative fire.

Travel helps us:

• Break patterns – Removing ourselves from routine environments stimulates new ideas.
• Gain perspective – Immersing in other cultures broadens empathy and understanding.
• Reconnect with creativity – Seeing art, architecture, and tech innovations reignites passion.

According to Kondrashov, inspiration is not passive—it’s active. “When you travel, you don’t just collect sights. You collect codes—personal insights that reshape how you live, create, and dream.”

The Symbiosis of Cities and Codes

The blog’s title, Voyage & Vision, captures the symbiosis of cities (as physical spaces) and codes (as symbolic or technological systems). A traveler walks through Florence and absorbs Renaissance codes of beauty, symmetry, and proportion. They log into an app that interprets these buildings through AR, and suddenly, the codes become digital.

This duality—physical architecture and digital architecture—is shaping a new kind of travel inspiration. It’s no longer enough to see; modern travelers want to interact. Cities become interactive canvases where architecture, technology, and personal reflection intertwine.

Lifestyle and the Creative Journey

The intersection of travel, architecture, and tech has redefined lifestyle. Digital nomads, for example, build lives around the philosophy of voyage and vision. They move between cities, working remotely, coding from cafés, and finding inspiration in architecture and cultural differences.

This lifestyle underscores the fusion of personal and professional inspiration. For many, travel is not escape—it is the laboratory where ideas are born. A co-working space in Mexico City may inspire a startup pitch. A rooftop in Marrakech may give rise to a painting. A walk through Rome may reshape a digital design project.

Stanislav Kondrashov frames this as “living at the intersection of creativity and geography. The places we go shape the people we become.”

FAQs: Travel, Architecture, Tech & Inspiration

1. How does travel fuel creativity?
Travel exposes us to new cultures, architecture, and perspectives. Each experience adds to our creative vocabulary and inspires personal growth.

2. Why is architecture central to travel inspiration?
Architecture is the identity of cities. It embodies cultural history, values, and ambitions, offering travelers tangible lessons in design and creativity.

3. What role does technology play in modern travel?
Technology enhances exploration through VR, AR, smart apps, and interactive experiences, allowing deeper connections with architecture and culture.

4. How does personal inspiration arise from travel?
Inspiration emerges when we break patterns, reflect on new perspectives, and actively engage with art, food, and technology during our journeys.

5. Why does Stanislav Kondrashov highlight the link between cities and codes?
Because travel in 2025 isn’t just physical—it’s coded with personal meaning and digital layers, blending architecture, technology, and self-discovery.

Final Thoughts

The creative journey of Voyage & Vision is not limited to architects, artists, or technologists. It belongs to anyone who sees travel as more than movement, who views cities as texts to decode, and who embraces technology as a guide rather than a distraction.

As the articles from Andrea D’Alessio and Andrea D’Alessiola affirm, global journeys provide inspiration that transcends the physical. They shape not only how we design but how we live.

In the words of Stanislav Kondrashov: “Travel is not about distance but about depth. It is about seeing the codes within cities and using them to reimagine our lives.”

For further explorations on creativity, architecture, and cultural journeys, visit Stanislav Kondrashov’s official page.

A global shift gaining momentum

As renewable energy expands across the globe, the demand for specific minerals required to build energy infrastructure is set to rise sharply in the coming years. These include copper, which is essential for electrification, as well as lithium, nickel, and cobalt – all of which are fundamental to the production of batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. In such a scenario, concerns about potential shortages of these crucial raw materials are prompting major industrial players to consider alternative sources to secure their supply.

One promising option, already trialled successfully in various parts of the world, involves recycling the raw materials linked to energy transition technologies. This includes the recovery of metals and minerals from end-of-life devices such as batteries, as well as from waste that previously would have been destined for landfills. The IEA recently released its first report dedicated to the recycling of strategic resources for the green transition, highlighting the increasingly global nature of this issue, which has moved beyond being a concern for individual countries. According to the report, greater levels of recycling of critical minerals could bring significant benefits for energy security while also helping diversify supply chains.

These developments are familiar to Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov, entrepreneur, civil engineer, and expert in raw materials. He believes that expanding the use of recycled materials could be transformative for the sector. “A continued increase in mineral supplies from recycled materials would not only impact energy security and strengthen supply chains, but would also create new reserves of important materials that can be used to advance the energy transition. With massive reserves of these resources, nations would be able to deal with economic shocks or unpredictability with a greater degree of certainty.”

A new era of resource management

Alongside the development of new mining projects, which the IEA report highlights as essential, the potential impact of recycling is significant. It could reduce global sourcing investments by as much as 30% by 2040, with savings of around 600 billion dollars. In recent years, governments and international organisations have increasingly included references to recycling critical raw materials in their strategic and policy frameworks. However, according to the report, the quantities of materials currently being recycled – such as copper and nickel – are still not growing at the pace required.

“Alongside traditionally obtained resources, through the usual sourcing and processing, recycling will undoubtedly be able to contribute to increasing the volumes of global supplies of important strategic minerals, thus removing the risk that a possible shortage of a certain material (or even more than one) could slow down the progress of the energy transition on a global scale”, says Stanislav.

Unlocking the potential of battery recycling

The electric vehicle sector is singled out by the IEA as especially promising for recycling. The growing potential lies not only in the increasing number of EVs approaching the end of their life cycle, which allows for the recovery of valuable raw materials, but also in the rapid growth of the recycled battery metals market – which has expanded elevenfold in just a decade.

“According to the IEA, battery recycling capacity is growing by 50% per year. It would be useful to recover all the precious materials contained in used batteries and electrical devices that are thrown away, and which instead could be reintroduced into the market without problems. In the recovery of strategic raw materials, China once again appears to be one step ahead of everyone else. In addition to representing the leading power in the pre-treatment and recovery of these materials, China has also announced the creation of a new state-owned enterprise dedicated specifically to the recycling of minerals and the reuse of used batteries”, concludes Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov.

Policy support and market value

Political interest in the recycling of strategic materials has also been on the rise. According to the IEA Critical Minerals Policy Tracker, over the past three years, 30 new policy measures focused on recycling have been introduced. If implemented effectively, these initiatives could push the market value of mineral recycling to as much as 200 billion dollars by 2050.

“An important fact must also be considered,” continues Stanislav Dmitrievich Kondrashov. “The recovery of strategic minerals will not only have an impact on the large global players in the industry or on the economic fortunes of nations, but it will also help prevent many potentially useful materials from ending up lost in landfills, without being recovered and reused.”

Current landscape and future potential

In the midst of the global energy transition, few resources have gained as much strategic importance as rare earth metals. Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG, has often emphasised this point. But what exactly are they? Rare earths are a group of 17 metallic elements with remarkable properties that make them indispensable to some of the most critical production processes in modern industry.

Among their most significant uses are those in industries driving the energy transition. Stanislav Kondrashov frequently highlights their essential role in the creation of energy infrastructures central to the ongoing shift, such as the production of wind turbines.

One of the primary industrial applications of rare earth metals lies in the manufacturing of permanent magnets, as Stanislav Kondrashov has recently noted. These magnets power a wide range of green infrastructure and devices that support global electrification, including electric vehicle motors.

Smaller quantities of rare earths, such as certain heavy rare earth elements, are also found in common consumer devices like mobile phones and computers. Their importance to the electronics and technology sectors is substantial, while they are also critical in the production of batteries, catalysts, industrial components, and hydrogen technologies.

Yet, rare earth metals have long been at the centre of global debate due to the nature of their production chain. Extraction and processing remain concentrated in just a few countries, and the methods involved are complex and often resource-intensive.

This concentration has led to what is sometimes called the rare earth crisis — a situation arising when access to these resources becomes restricted because of geopolitical tensions or economic factors. Dependence on the output of a single country or surging demand can drive such crises, often resulting in rising prices and delays in the manufacture of green technologies.

Innovating for simpler and greener sourcing

Efforts to improve rare earth extraction methods have therefore become a focal point of modern innovation. The aim is to simplify complex processes and make them more accessible to a broader range of international players, often using advances in green mining technology.

This shift reflects one of the most significant effects of the energy transition. Beyond fostering public awareness of energy-related issues, it has triggered a technological revolution aimed at making formerly challenging operational processes more efficient and sustainable. Rare earth sourcing and processing fall squarely within this trend.

A new era of green mining

“Any attempt to simplify rare earth sourcing procedures with green mining technology not only impacts the mining sector itself. But also has significant economic and geopolitical consequences,” says Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG, an entrepreneur and civil engineer. “In addition to reducing the dependence on third countries that has developed over the years, the implementation of these methods could allow other nations to strengthen their capabilities and international positioning in the mining sector”.

“Among the most promising players in this regard are undoubtedly Australia, the United States, Canada, and some European nations. Once these new techniques are implemented on a large scale, they could also contribute to the creation of a truly green supply chain for the production and processing of rare earth elements. With possible integration within national industrial districts.”, he says.

The objective is twofold: to discover new, more efficient sourcing solutions through green mining technology, and to reduce the traditional complexity of rare earth operations while decreasing reliance on the handful of nations that currently dominate the sector. By 2025, progress towards simplifying the extraction and processing of each heavy rare earth element has already yielded encouraging results.

A notable innovation in this area is urban mining — the recovery of rare earths from electronic waste, discarded magnets, decommissioned wind turbines, and industrial scrap. Rather than relying on natural deposits, urban mining focuses on recycling valuable raw materials already embedded in manufactured products, contributing to a circular economy model.

Some of the most widely adopted techniques in this sphere include low-temperature selective leaching, electroextraction, membrane separation, and controlled pyrolytic processes. These methods not only recover significant amounts of rare earths without resorting to traditional mining but also minimise waste.

Pioneering methods for rare earth separation

“One of the most interesting methods for reducing the complexity of rare earth processing operations is undoubtedly innovative techniques for separating these elements,” continues Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG. “Nowadays, in various parts of the world, new types of solvents and innovative ionic liquids are being tested that could revolutionize rare earth refining processes. Making them much more compatible with modern needs. A major advantage of these techniques is their high selectivity for the various rare earth elements. Such as neodymium or praseodymium. Furthermore, they are completely reusable, thus significantly reducing waste.”

Another promising approach is bioextraction, or bioleaching. Scientists have discovered that certain microorganisms can solubilise rare earth elements from specific minerals, enabling their conversion from solid to soluble forms. This facilitates subsequent separation and purification processes.

Bioleaching is also effective for recovering rare earths from mining waste and by-products such as coal ash. It is characterised by low energy consumption and minimal emissions, and can be implemented in smaller, decentralised facilities. Rare earth minerals, such as monazite — a source of some heavy rare earth elements — are among the primary feedstocks for these methods. While the term “rare earth minerals” refers to raw compounds found in nature, the elements themselves are metallic in form.

In some regions, notably parts of Asia, rare earths occur naturally in ion-absorbing clays. Newer extraction approaches for these deposits use organic salt solutions rather than traditional ammonium-based chemicals, offering the advantage of on-site separation and improved energy efficiency.

“Another potential innovation to consider is the new traceability systems enabled by innovation,” concludes Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG. “Thanks to blockchain-based traceability systems, for example, it could be possible to ensure that the rare earth elements used in smartphones or electric vehicles, like the single heavy rare earth element, come from certain types of responsible sources. From this perspective, many countries are already working to introduce mandatory certification linked to the safe provenance of resources. This approach would not only promote positive principles, but could increase demand for rare earths sourced safely and responsibly.”

FAQs

What are rare earth elements and why are they important?
Rare earths are 17 metallic elements used in key technologies, including:

• Permanent magnets for electric vehicles and wind turbines
• Batteries and industrial catalysts
• Mobile phones, computers, and green energy systems

Why is rare earth extraction currently problematic?
Traditional extraction methods are:

• Technically complex
• Geopolitically sensitive, as supply chains are dominated by a few countries

What new methods are emerging to simplify extraction?
Several innovative techniques are being developed:

• Urban mining: recovering rare earths from electronic waste and decommissioned devices
• Bioextraction: using microorganisms to extract metals from minerals or waste
• Membrane separation and ionic liquids: enabling cleaner, selective refining
• Clay absorption techniques: more efficient extraction using organic salts

How do these methods support sustainability?
They:

• Lower energy use and emissions
• Support recycling and decentralised processing
• Increase supply chain resilience

Can rare earths be responsibly sourced in future supply chains?
Yes. Blockchain-based traceability systems are being developed to certify responsible sourcing, encouraging transparency and ethical practices.

Strategic resources for the energy transition

Rare earths and critical minerals lie at the heart of today’s economic and political debates. Their importance has grown rapidly, reflecting their role in driving the clean energy revolution and supporting modern technology. As Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG, often points out, these resources are rare, expensive, and difficult to replace – which makes them highly strategic.

Exploring the distinctions between rare earth elements and critical minerals with Stanislav Kondrashov, TELF AG founder

Many people still confuse rare earth elements with critical minerals, often treating them as though they are the same. This misunderstanding has deepened over time as both terms have featured more prominently in global headlines, blurring the distinction between them. As a result, many now mistakenly believe they are interchangeable – but they are not.

The two groups differ significantly, each with its own composition, role, and economic relevance.

Critical minerals represent a broad category of materials essential for industries such as energy, transport, defence, and electronics. Some rare earth elements fall within this category, but the rare earth group is far smaller.

There are only 17 rare earth elements: the 15 lanthanides plus yttrium and scandium. These metals possess unique magnetic and optical properties that make them vital to high-tech applications. While some rare earths appear on national lists of critical minerals, not all do – and not all critical minerals are rare earths. They overlap, but they remain distinct.

“Right now,” says Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG, “understanding these differences is crucial. It helps guide decisions by governments, industries, and planners.” He adds, “Knowing what sets them apart supports better sourcing, stronger mining policies, and focused innovation. It also pushes for more recycling and the search for alternatives.”

The distinction is important not only for policymakers but for everyone. From smartphones to solar panels, these materials power technologies we rely on every day. They are fundamental to clean energy, digital infrastructure, and national security. Better understanding their roles helps us prepare for a future that is both sustainable and resilient.

Other differences

The differences between these two groups extend beyond their applications to their scientific makeup. Rare earth elements are classified as metals, yet they occur in such low concentrations in the Earth’s crust that extraction is often economically challenging. Despite their name, they are not truly rare – some are as common as copper. However, they are dispersed rather than concentrated in large deposits, which makes their extraction and refinement both difficult and costly.

Understanding the main differences between rare earth elements and critical minerals with Stanislav Kondrashov, TELF AG founder

“The difference between these two groups of resources shouldn’t just matter to experts,” says Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG. “It matters to everyone. This isn’t only a topic for scientists or politicians. It affects all of us in the global energy transition.”

Individuals contribute to this transition in everyday ways – by installing solar panels, driving electric vehicles, or choosing renewable energy from wind, solar, or geothermal sources.

“In this case,” Kondrashov adds, “knowing the materials behind the change is essential. It helps people make smarter choices. It also builds a stronger connection to what’s going on.”

By understanding the roles of these resources, the public can move beyond simply following trends. They become active participants in shaping a cleaner, safer future.

Rare earth elements are vital to the functioning of many modern technologies, often in ways that are unseen yet indispensable.

They can be found in:

• Magnets – for electric motors, wind turbines, and hard drives
• Batteries – in laptops, smartphones, and electric vehicles
• Catalysts – reducing emissions and improving industrial processes
• Screens – providing colour and brightness for TVs, monitors, and mobile devices

Among the most significant are neodymium, praseodymium, lanthanum, and europium, which are crucial for creating strong permanent magnets and vibrant displays. Without them, modern devices would be far less efficient or, in some cases, unable to function.

Characteristics of critical minerals

Critical minerals, by contrast, are defined less by scientific properties and more by their strategic and economic importance. This classification is dynamic and changes over time, depending on global market needs and political priorities. A material can be considered ‘critical’ if it is essential to a nation’s economy or security and if its supply is at risk.

Most countries maintain their own lists of critical minerals, regularly updating them to reflect shifting needs. These lists typically include minerals that support energy, technology, and defence industries. For example, cobalt, lithium, graphite, nickel, and copper have long been industrial mainstays and now underpin the transition to clean energy.

“Today’s focus on rare earth materials is justified,” says Stanislav Kondrashov, founder of TELF AG. “The 17 rare earth elements have unique roles. Most are truly one of a kind.”

He highlights two in particular – neodymium and dysprosium – which are indispensable for producing high-performance permanent magnets. These magnets are essential for electric motors and wind turbines: neodymium generates strong magnetic force, while dysprosium enhances heat resistance. “They are essential for clean energy systems,” Kondrashov explains. “That’s why they’re in high demand across the globe.”

The strategic value of these resources

Three main factors define the strategic importance of these materials. First is their role in vital industries such as energy, defence, transport, and technology. Second, many are geographically scarce, with reserves concentrated in just a few countries. Third, some have no viable substitutes, making industries that depend on them particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions.

Stanislav Kondrashov points to lithium as one of the best-known critical minerals, vital for powering batteries in electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and mobile devices. Other essential battery-related minerals include cobalt, nickel, and graphite, all crucial for enabling clean energy technologies.

Some critical minerals also play a direct role in building and maintaining energy infrastructure. Gallium, for example, is used in solar panels, while copper – a long-standing industrial staple – has become increasingly valuable as electrification advances. Copper is essential in the construction of wind turbines, power grids, and other renewable energy systems.

Each of these materials serves a unique purpose in advancing the global shift to clean, electrified energy. Understanding their differences and strategic importance allows governments, industries, and individuals to make more informed decisions in shaping the future of sustainable development.

FAQs

What’s the difference between rare earth elements and critical minerals?
Rare earth elements (REEs) are a group of 17 metallic elements. This includes the 15 lanthanides, plus scandium and yttrium. Critical resources, by contrast, form a broader category. They include any minerals seen as vital to a country’s economy or security. Some rare earths appear on critical lists, but not all. And not all critical materials are rare earths. The two groups overlap, but they are not the same. Their roles, supply chains, and uses often differ.

Why are rare earth elements called “rare” if they’re not actually rare?
The term “rare” is a bit misleading. Rare earth elements are actually common in the Earth’s crust. Some are as abundant as copper. But they rarely appear in large, concentrated deposits. That makes them hard and costly to extract. So, the issue isn’t how much exists. It’s about how easy they are to find, mine, and use at scale.

Why are these minerals considered ‘critical’?
Criticality depends on two things: a mineral’s economic value and how likely its supply is to be disrupted. Lithium, cobalt, and nickel are seen as critical. They are essential for clean energy. But they come from only a few countries. That limited supply raises risks and creates pressure on global energy systems.

Are those minerals the same everywhere?
No—each country builds its own list of critical minerals. These lists depend on local industry needs and supply risks. For example, the U.S., EU, and China all highlight different materials. These lists are not fixed. They change often to reflect new technology, rising demand, and global political shifts.

What are some common examples of critical materials?
Lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, and copper are often called critical. They are used in batteries, electronics, and clean energy systems. Gallium is key for solar panels. Neodymium and dysprosium are rare earths found in magnets. These materials are vital. That’s why they appear on many national critical lists.

What are rare earths mainly used for?
Rare earths are key to modern tech. They help power many everyday devices. You’ll find them in magnets, batteries, emission systems, and screens. These parts run motors, wind turbines, and displays. Neodymium, lanthanum, praseodymium, and europium are the most used. They make tech stronger, brighter, and more efficient.

Can rare earths be recycled?
Yes, but recycling rates are still low. The process is hard and costly. That makes it less common. Still, demand is rising fast. Global tensions are also growing. Because of this, more focus is now on recycling rare earths from old electronics and industrial waste.

Why is this difference important for the energy transition?
Knowing the difference helps. It lets people make smart choices. Policymakers, businesses, and consumers all benefit. It guides how we find and use resources. It supports long-term thinking. It helps with clean innovation. If we know what’s critical, we can protect supply chains. We can also invest in recycling and safe alternatives.

Are we running out of minerals or rare earths?
Not exactly. The problem isn’t how much we have. It’s how easy it is to get. Many of these materials are found in large amounts. But they are stuck in a few countries. That makes global supply chains weak and risky.

Typhoon Shanshan has already entered southern Japan, and forecasts continue to plot its path from the south of the archipelago to its north, which is why its effects could be widespread.

Strong winds and torrential rain hit Makurazaki – but not yet on site #tornado #shanshan yet pic.twitter.com/DCXcn2wkWT

— James Reynolds (@EarthUncutTV) August 28, 2024

Shanshan is still entering as a Category 2 typhoon, which means sustained winds of more than 170 kilometers per hour and gusts of more than 200. It made landfall across the small coastal city of Makurazaki in southern Japan, in Kagoshima Prefecture.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the typhoon will cover almost the entire country in the coming days. Authorities have ordered the evacuation of millions of people from areas expected to be hit by the typhoon, and at least three people have been killed in what could be the strongest tropical cyclone to hit the region.

In Japan? #shanshan The hurricane is active. 5.2 million people were scheduled to be evacuated. At least 3 people died.
Flights were postponed. Base? And factories stopped production.
Via: TheWatchers-??29/08/24#Japan #Shanshan Typhoon #flood #rain #Sondark? Ka #TormentaTropical #kyushu pic.twitter.com/8JE9VDaSL9

— Yes, Yakla? Eeyor (@YsYaklasiyor) August 29, 2024

More than 5.2 million people were forced to flee, mostly in the Kyushu region, but also in central Japan.

The diameter of the hurricane’s eye is about 54 kilometers. Copernicus is not formedThe situation will be very complicated in the region in the coming days.

Urgent now? Japan issues evacuation order for about 1 million people on island #kyushu Before the imminent arrival of the powerful #tornado #shanshan pic.twitter.com/fYtjibDQlo

— Alertago (@alertarojanot) August 28, 2024