Promethium (Pm): Uses, Supply and Investment Guide
Promethium is the only rare earth with no stable isotopes, so it is radioactive and almost absent from nature. Promethium used today is produced in nuclear reactors in tiny quantities for specialist uses, and it is not an investable commodity.
| Symbol | Pm |
|---|---|
| Atomic number | 61 |
| Group | Light rare earth (LREE) |
| Magnet rare earth | No |
| Main uses | Nuclear batteries; Industrial gauges; Research |
| Main sources | Produced in nuclear reactors; only trace amounts occur in uranium ores |
| China export status | Not traded commercially |
| Price data | No public benchmark |
Promethium Price
Promethium has no commodity price. It is sold as a radioisotope under nuclear regulations.
For the rare earths that do have public price series, see the rare earth price charts, and how rare earth pricing works for why most rare earths have no transparent benchmark.
What Is Promethium Used For?
- Nuclear batteries. Promethium-147 powers betavoltaic batteries for long-life, low-power devices.
- Industrial gauges. Promethium sources measure material thickness in manufacturing.
- Research. Promethium is studied in national laboratories, including Oak Ridge in the United States.
Where Does Promethium Come From?
Promethium is produced in nuclear reactors and recovered from spent fuel or irradiated targets. Only trace amounts exist naturally. Production is measured in grams and handled by government laboratories and specialist isotope suppliers.
China export controls on promethium
This element is not traded as a commodity, so export controls on rare earth commodities do not apply in practice.
How to Invest in Promethium
There is no practical way to invest in promethium. It is not mined, has no commodity market and contributes nothing to rare earth producers' revenue.
For broader rare earth exposure, see the rare earth stock watchlist or the rare earth ETF comparison.
Promethium Investment Risks
- Not applicable: promethium is not an investable commodity.
Promethium FAQ
Why is promethium radioactive?
Promethium is radioactive because none of its isotopes are stable. All promethium decays over time, which is why almost none exists in nature.
Is promethium a rare earth element?
Yes, promethium is one of the 15 lanthanides and therefore a rare earth element, sitting between neodymium and samarium in the periodic table.
Can you invest in promethium?
No, you cannot invest in promethium in any practical way. It is made in nuclear reactors in tiny amounts and has no commodity market.
Other Light rare earth (LREE) Elements
This page is research, not investment advice. See the disclaimer.