A group of scientists from the Materials Research Institute, led by Dr. Lee Jung-koo and Dr. Kim Tae-hoon developed a new rare earth element-reduced permanent magnet material that can reduce the use of the element neodymium by about 30% in industrial magnets.  Because rare earths can be difficult to obtain and many countries experience supply shortages (most production takes place outside of the US and there are limitations and regulations to export), the scientists aimed to find an alternative solution to reduce neodymium without impacting its magnetic properties. Prior to this new development the cerium content was increased, but it negatively impacted magnetic properties.

Permanent Magnet Technology Findings

The team at the Materials Research Institute discovered that “existing rare-earth element-based permanent magnets entail unnecessary magnetic particle formation and the particles adversely affect the microstructure and magnetic properties of the magnet.” As a result, they suppressed the dispersion of atoms in the particles and changed the particle formation to improve its microstructure. Then, they applied rapid cooling to reduce unnecessary intra-magnet magnetic particle formation and optimize its microstructure. By doing so, they also found that they can improve residual magnetization and coercive force.  If this new technology is commercialized, the team says it can help combat shortages and be applied to industrial fields that require high-efficiency motors, such as electric vehicles and drones. 

Discover More Industrial Magnet News With Apex Magnets

At Apex Magnets, we’re always staying up-to-date on the latest industrial magnet news and trends. If you’re interested in reading more content about how rare earth metal shortages impact magnets, check out our other blogs, including Addressing Rare Earth Supply Shortages With Recycled Hard Drives and Urban Mining-the Recycling of Rare Earth Magnets.  You can also see similar magnetic discoveries, as well as magnet applications for businesses, in the “Magnet Facts” and “Neodymium Magnet Information” sections of our blog.