Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a low temperature, semi-continuous process for producing high purity rare earth metals and alloys in molten salts. Rare earth metals and alloys are reduced from the corresponding rare earth halide in molten salts in a semi-continuous process. An air stable pellet or ingot can be fed into molten salts and reduced through metallothermic reduction or electrolysis. The formation of an air stable feedstock minimizes handling concerns of the hygroscopic rare earth salts, allowing the reduction process to be run in a semi-continuous process. The process can optionally include the addition of alloying elements such as magnesium, iron and zinc reduce the required processing temperature.

Abstract: Sinusitis, tumors, infections, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches. Access devices may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices such catheters, balloon catheters, dilation catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, suction or irrigation devices and biopsy devices.