Deriving European Tantalum Flows Using Trade and Production Statistics

摘要: Summary Even though tantalum has a high economic importance and is associated with armed conflict, the use of throughout supply chain importing economies not well understood. This article adds to existing qualitative descriptions by performing quantified substance flow analysis (SFA) for Europe in year 2007. The exercise meant show how readily available statistical information could be used along simple transparent assumptions on product composition allocation, yield an enabling visual representation critical materials. case shows some surprising results. First all, this study that computer hard disks artificial joints may more relevant than found previous studies. Further, we find consumption larger expected based geological survey reports, attributed fraction being imported subcomponents final products. Further research needed substantiate claim, but what clear detailed SFA provides valuable insights into as material, stages related production tantalum-containing also allowed waste generation profiles enabled identification e-waste important focus group order improve recycling rates eventually reduce society's dependence scarce or conflict-related raw