


Due to the extremely complex separation process, lutetium is the most expensive element among the rare earths. In addition, the fields of application are highly specialised, which is also responsible for the high price of the rare earth element. Lutetium is used in the production of computer chips in the immersion lithography process. It is also used as a catalyst for refining crude oil and in the production of infrared lasers. There are also a few applications in medicine.