Heavy rare earth, lanthanide
What is terbium? Properties, uses, supply and price
Terbium (Tb) is a heavy rare earth element (atomic number 65) used in high-temperature magnets, green phosphors and magnetostrictive alloys. All US imports of terbium compounds and metal in 2021–24 came from China.
Facts from USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries 2026 · reviewed 28 October 2026
Terbium key facts
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Symbol, atomic number | Tb, 65 |
| Group | Heavy rare earth (lanthanide) |
| Main end uses | High-temperature magnets, phosphors |
| Chinese export licence | Since 4 April 2025 |
| US import source, 2021–24 | China, 100% |
| 2025 oxide average (USGS) | $1,010 per kg (99.99%) |
Where terbium comes from
Ores and clays
Terbium occurs in minute proportions in rare earth minerals and in ion-adsorption clays. The Brazilian ionic clay mine that produces mixed concentrates with elevated terbium and dysprosium received a $465 million US DFC loan approval in November 2025.
Single-source separation
Terbium compounds and metal enter the US only from China in the 2021–24 trade data. The Mountain Pass heavy rare earth separation plant and an Australian producer's planned Malaysian facility are the announced non-Chinese sources.
What terbium is used for
| End use | Weight | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| NdFeB magnets | Main use | Terbium, like dysprosium, keeps coercivity at temperature |
| Phosphors | Established | Green phosphors in lighting and displays |
| Magnetostrictive alloys | Niche | Sonar and precision actuators |
Substitutes and recycling
Substitutes
Substitutes are available for some applications but are less effective; light rare earths can replace heavy ones in several uses (USGS).
Recycling
Small quantities are recovered from permanent magnets; the recyclers financed by the Department of War in 2025 target terbium and dysprosium.
Policy and supply security
Export licensing
Terbium is on the April 2025 Chinese control list. The October 2025 package that would have covered all heavy rare earths is suspended for one year.
Dated events and export-control steps are on the China export-control timeline. Listed companies with exposure: Rare earth stocks exposed to heavy rare earths.
Terbium: frequently asked questions
What is terbium used for?
High-temperature NdFeB magnets, green phosphors in lighting and displays, and magnetostrictive alloys.
Why is terbium so expensive?
It is scarce in rare earth ore, separated almost only in China and licensed for export. USGS puts the 2025 average terbium oxide price at $1,010 per kg.
How much does terbium cost?
The reference price is $4,593.75 per kg as of 27 October 2026, +131.61% year to date.
Related elements
Sources
Information only, not investment advice. Reviewed 28 October 2026.