Editors: | F. Kongoli, F. Marquis, N. Chikhradze, T. Prikhna, O. Adiguzel, E. Aifantis, R. Das, P. Trovalusci |
Publisher: | Flogen Star OUTREACH |
Publication Year: | 2023 |
Pages: | 288 pages |
ISBN: | 978-1-998384-00-6 (CD) |
ISSN: | 2291-1227 (Metals and Materials Processing in a Clean Environment Series) |
E-mobility advancements and green power generation are central to achieving Green Deal's goals toward a low-carbon society. High-performing rare earth elements-transition metals permanent magnets (REE-TM PMs), such as Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co, vital in e-motors and generators, are thus indispensable to meet these aims. Thus, in-depth study into REE-TM PMs is essential to boost their performance. However, the challenge lies in the limited availability of REEs, as they're flagged as critical for EU. Comprehensive solutions in recourse efficient magnet processing and reprocessing, including recycling, should now be integral to future PMs development. We are actively researching ways to make Nd-Fe-B and PMs reprocessing and recycling more viable [1]. Applying the electrochemical separation of anodic oxidation showed that the Nd-Fe-B scrap magnets can be successfully recycled either to matrix Nd2Fe14B matrix phase grains or be separated down to rare earth precursors [2]. Additionally, we have found that Sm-Co PMs can also be effectively recycled using electrochemical methods [3]. A step towards upscaling of Nd-Fe-B recycling principles is realized by selective chemical leaching of the Nd-rich secondary phase out of Nd-Fe-B feedstocks via organic acid which is considered as environmentally friendly approach [4]. These recycling routes open up new possibilities for reengineering Nd-Fe-B magnets from scratch, breaking away from conventional approaches and potentially improving magnet performance, such as energy products. In ongoing work related to the Nd-Fe-B system, we are exploring fast consolidation techniques through spark plasma sintering. These techniques hold promise in advancing the perspective of Nd-Fe-B magnet development.