The Corliss Technology Review Group: Rare material shortages could put gadgets at risk

Modern technology is too reliant on rare materials whose scarcity could drastically set back innovation, a new report has warned. It suggested that as more and more devices are manufactured, supplies of key elements, particularly metals, will be strained. Potential substitute materials are either inadequate or non-existent, researchers said. One scientist called the findings "an important wake-up call".