Abstract
The criticality of rare metals in industrial applications combines supply risks on the one hand, and user exposure on the other.
The first point is fairly generic, and consists of a combination of risks linked to the extraction of natural resources, geopolitical factors, and the technical and economic aspects of metal processing and recycling chains, in the face of changing demand.
Exposure is specific to a particular use, since it brings together elements of consumption in relation to world production and market share, cost, reuse potential, substitution possibilities, and regulatory and competitive factors. For the same metal, these exposure risks can vary greatly depending on the application.
At Total, we analyze these criticality factors on a recurring basis for 33 elements and for the various Group entities. This enables us to keep a close watch on global developments in essential metals, to reduce risks, in particular through reduced use, and to guide R&D by anticipating risks for future products.
