Europium
Symbol: Eu
Atomic Number: 63
Light Rare Earth Metal
Eu
Overview
Europium is one of the rarest and most reactive rare earth elements. It's essential for producing the red color in television and computer screens, as well as in LED bulbs. Europium compounds are used as anti-counterfeiting marks in Euro banknotes, glowing under UV light. It's also one of the most expensive rare earth elements due to its relative scarcity.
Appearance
Silvery-white, soft metal
Electron Configuration
[Xe] 4f⁷6s²
Density
5.264 g/cm³
Melting Point
822°C
Discovery
Year:
1901
Discoverer:
Eugène-Antole Demarçay
Location:
France
Discovery Timeline
1901
124 years ago
Primary Uses
- Red and blue phosphors in displays
- Anti-counterfeiting in Euro banknotes
- Nuclear reactor control rods
- LED bulbs
Application Sectors
Electronics Medical Energy Defense Manufacturing
Economic Value
Current Price
$250 per kg
Price Trend
Stable
Supply Risk
Primary Producers
ChinaRussiaMalaysia
Investing in Europium
- Europium oxide (99.9%) trades at US $200-240 /kg FOB China (≈ US $0.22 /g) as of May 2025.
- European spot prices reach US $280-320 /kg due to supply chain complexity.
- Asian Metal's index shows volatility with LED market shifts.
- Small-lot investors face 40-50% premiums above bulk prices.
- Metal prices carry 45-50% premium over oxide due to processing challenges.
How to Get Exposure
| Route | Why It Appeals | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Physical metal/oxide | Direct exposure to LED market | Storage, oxidation risks |
| Mining stocks | Operational leverage potential | Limited pure-play options |
| ETFs | Broader rare earth exposure | Minimal Eu-specific exposure |
Market Outlook
- LED and display technology driving demand fluctuations.
- Security applications providing steady baseline demand.
- Supply remains heavily concentrated in China.
- Recycling rates improving but still below 15% of supply.
FAQs
Why invest in Europium?
It offers exposure to display technology and security applications.
How volatile is the market?
Prices can be volatile due to LED market shifts and limited supply sources.
Disclaimer: Market data is indicative and updates frequently; nothing here constitutes financial advice.