IUMRS-ICEM 2026

Chairs:
Prof. Dr. Jakrapong Kaewkhao, Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University and Vice President of Rare Earth and Minerals Association (Thailand) 
Prof.Dr.David Bradley, University of Surrey, United Kingdom

Co-chairs:
Prof.Dr.Naratip Vittayakorn, KMITL and President of Rare Earth and Minerals Association (Thailand)
Assoc.Prof.Dr.Suchart Kothan, Center of Radiation Research and Medical Imaging, Chiang Mai University
Asst.Prof.Dr.Narit Triamnak, Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, Silpakorn University, Thailand
Assoc.Prof.Dr.Patarawagee Yasaka, Center of Excellence in Glass Technology and Materials Science, Nakhon Pathom Rajabhat University, Thailand
Dr.Wutthikrai Busayaporn, Synchrotron Light Research Institute (Public Organization) 
Dr.Phakkhananan Pakawanit, Synchrotron Light Research Institute (Public Organization) 
Dr.Phieraya Pulphol, Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Srinakharinwirot University, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Symposium Scope: 

This session focuses on recent advances in rare earth and critical materials, which play a vital role in modern and emerging high-technology applications. Topics cover material synthesis, processing, property tailoring, and structural and functional characterization, as well as pratical applications in areas such as clean energy, advanced electronics, optoelectronics, luminescent and magnetic materials, sensors, medical technologies, and radiation imaging. The scope also encompasses a wide range of material classes, including inorganic functional materials, ceramics, glasses, polymers, alloys, composites, nanomaterials, hybrid materials, and advanced engineered systems containing rare earth and critical elements. Particular attention is given to compositional design, doping strategies, microstructure control, and performance optimization for targeted technological applications.

In addition, the session addresses upstream aspects of the critical materials value chain, including mineral resources, ore characterization, extraction technologies, mineral processing, beneficiation, refining, and separation techniques. Topics of interest include physical and chemical beneficiation methods, hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processing, solvent extraction, ion-exchange separation, advanced refining technologies, and emerging environmentally responsible extraction approaches. Recycling, urban mining, and recovery of rare earth and critical elements from secondary resources are also key themes.

Overall, the session aims to foster interdisciplinary exchange among researchers, academics, and technology developers, highlighting both fundamental research and application-driven innovations that support sustainable, resilient, and secure technological development across the entire lifecycle of rare earth and critical materials.