Characterization of the anthropogenic cycle of dysprosium in Italy: material flow analysis and preliminary life cycle assessment results

Critical raw materials, like dysprosium (Dy), are crucial in modern society, especially in emerging technologies such as electric mobility and renewable energy generation. China dominates global Dy production, leaving other nations reliant on imports to meet their demand. Recycling end-of-life products could reduce this dependence and partly fulfill domestic Dy demand. However, global Dy recycling rates remain below 1%, with limited industrial recycling. This study employs Material Flow Analysis (MFA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to assess Italy's Dy value chain and recycling potential. A dynamic MFA model tracks Dy flows and reserves in Italy from 2000 to 2021. The analysis shows that Italy's in-use Dy stock in 2021 was 571 tonnes, while the demand was 37 tonnes. Recycling the entire stock could supply 15 times Italy's current Dy demand. MFA findings combined with LCA reveal recycling's potential to cut over 76% of greenhouse gas emissions (2990 tCO2eq/year at 2021 levels) and reduce energy use by 80% (61800 MJ/year at 2021 levels) linked to primary Dy production. This highlights recycling's environmental and strategic benefits for resource sustainability.