Automaker targets neodymium in new formula for magnets used in electric motors

We generally see two main types of rare earth magnet in use today, neodymium magnets and samarium cobalt magnets. They both come in different grades and have different properties and applications. Neodymium magnets, the stronger of the two, use an alloy that contains mainly neodymium, iron, boron, and varying degrees of dysprosium and praseodymium.

Rare earths are minerals used for a variety of military equipment and consumer electronics. China has only a third of the world’s rare earth reserves, but it accounts for 80% of US imports because it controls nearly all of the processing facilities

The owner of the only U.S. rare earths mine is going on a hiring spree as it looks to significantly boost production, part of a strategy to build out American refining capability after China raised tariffs on the minerals amid an escalating trade war.

Purdue University researchers developed a parallel inner-magnet device to reduce the size and increase the efficiency of the moderate- to low-power electric generators. Credit: Purdue University

Rare-earth permanent magnet ac motors generate magnetic fields that provide the same torque as ac induction motors, which are smaller and lighter.