Rare-earth magnets

Posted by Le Carlson on Jun 17th 2021

Rare-earth magnets are strong permanent magnets that were developed during the 1970s & 80s. A permanent magnet is one that produces a magnetic field that is always on and has no off/on switch like an electro-magnet. Rare earth magnets are manufactured using “rare Earth material which is an ore that is mined from the earth. Two elements derived from this ore material are combined with other materials such as iron, cobalt and boron. These alloys have been named by their primary rare earth elements names. Neodymium and samarium cobalt.

These two types of rare earth magnets have been through many improvements since the late 70s to develop more strength but since their beginnings have been the strongest permanent magnets on the face of the earth. That is even more true now because of the continual refinements made to the manufacturing process.

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Nd
  • Name Neodymium
  • symbol Nd
  • 60
  • Atomic Weight 144.24
  • Electron configurations
  • Crystalline structure
  • Physical state at 68 degree F Solid
  • Family Lanthanides
  • Atomic mass Density7.0 g cm-3
  • Melting point 1024 °C
  • Boiling point 3074 °C
  • Isotopes9
  • Discovered by
  • Also Called ND, Neodymium - Nd Neodymium
  • Neodymium Alloy (used in neodymium magnets) NdFeb (Neodymium Iron & Boron)

There are 15 elements that are listed on the Periodic Table of the Elements that belong to the rare earth family. On the table they are referred to as the Lanthanides. The 2 we are interested in are Neodymium Nd in a cell phone Neodymium is used in the speaker, microphone and vibration units

Mars Rovers have been using these strong magnets for dust collection (for analysis) for years

Neodymium Neodymium Neodymium is a glistening silvery-yellow metal. It's quite responsive and quickly tarnishes in the atmosphere and the coat of corrosion formed doesn't protect the metal from further oxidation, so it must be kept away from contact with air.Applications

Neodymium is one of those rare chemicals that is found in homes in equipment such as televisions,

These magnets are commonly used in

  • Modern vehicles (brakes & AC components)
  • Data storage
  • Household items ( magnetic hooks, knife holders, craft magnets & toys)
  • Loudspeakers.

Neodymium is the 2nd most abundant of these rare-earth components (after cerium) and is nearly as abundant as aluminum. Neodymium is found in minerals which have all lanthanide minerals, such as monazite and bastnasite.

Neodymium found in humans is very small and, even though the metal has no biological function. Neodymium can be very painful if the dust or salts get into the eyes. Even ingested neodymium is only slightly toxic.

Neodymium however can cause lung problem, particularly during long-term exposure.

Neodymium magnets are extremely powerful permanent (non electromagnets) magnets made from an alloy of neodymium, iron & boron. Two elements from the lanthanide group of elements are used in making very powerful magnets. They are Samarium & Neodymium. The elemental group Lanthanides along with two other chemically similar compounds, scandium and yttrium are collectively called Rare Earth elements.

Samarium cobalt

Samarium-cobalt

Samarium–cobalt magnets (chemical formula: SmCo5), the first family of rare-earth magnets invented, are less used than neodymium magnets because of their higher cost and lower magnetic field strength. However, samarium–cobalt has a higher Curie temperature, creating a niche for these magnets in applications where high field strength is needed at high operating temperatures. They are highly resistant to oxidation, but sintered samarium–cobalt magnets are brittle and prone to chipping and cracking and may fracture when subjected to thermal shock.

Other Questions

What is a rare earth magnet Rare-earth magnets are extremely strong permanent magnets. These magnets are manufactured by combining alloy materials with Neodymium or Samarium then magnetized. Developed in the 1970s and 1980s, rare-earth magnets are the strongest Permanent magnets made. Rare earth magnets are a huge leap forward in terms of strength over the magnets of the past & are nearly as responsible for the leap in miniaturized electronics as the integrated circuit.

How are rare earth magnets made Rare earth magnets are created by combining Rare Earth Materials such as Neodymium or Samarium with other element such as Iron, Boron & cobal and then magnetizing the alloy.

how rare are rare earth magnets The rare earth elements used to make Rare Earth Magnets are about as plentiful as aluminium. The term “rare earth” as used soon after discovery because everyone thought it was rare before discovering that the ore was quite plentiful.
how much are rare earth magnets worth
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Some important properties used to compare permanent magnets are: remanence (Br), which measures the strength of the magnetic field; coercivity (Hci), the material's resistance to becoming demagnetized; energy product (BHmax), the density of magnetic energy; and Curie temperature (TC), the temperature at which the material loses its magnetism. Rare-earth magnets have higher remanence, much higher coercivity and energy product, but (for neodymium) lower Curie temperature than other types. The table below compares the magnetic performance of the two types of rare-earth magnets, neodymium (Nd2Fe14B) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo5), with other types of permanent magnets.

MagnetpreparationBr

(T)

Hci

(kA/m)

BHmax

(kJ/m3)

TC

(°C)

Nd2Fe14Bsintered1.0–1.4750–2000200–440310–400
Nd2Fe14Bbonded0.6–0.7600–120060–100310–400
SmCo5sintered0.8–1.1600–2000120–200720
Sm(Co,Fe,Cu,Zr)7sintered0.9–1.15450–1300150–240800
Alnicosintered0.6–1.427510–88700–860
Sr-ferritesintered0.2–0.4100–30010–40450
Iron (Fe) bar magnetannealed?800[8]?770[9]

Coercivity is a measure of the ability of a magnet to withstand an external magnetic field without becoming demagnetized. Coercivity is usually measured in oersted or ampere/meter units and is denoted HC.

Both hard & soft ferromagnetic materials exist Hard meaning that they hold their magnetism very well while the soft ferromagnetic materials tend to lose magnetism with a smaller change to their surroundings.

Heat is a major factor especially in the “soft” range. Many neodymium magnets lose their magnetism at about 174 degrees Fahrenheit. These are great for many applications like in transformer and inductorcores, recording heads, microwave devices, and magnetic shielding.

Soft materials cannot be used in things like electric motors and other applications that create a very hot environment.

Magnetically hard, are used to make permanent magnets. Materials with low coercivity are said to be magnetically soft.

Temperature

Temperature sensitivity varies, but when a magnet is heated to a temperature known as the Curie point, it loses all of its magnetism, even after cooling below that temperature.

The maximum usable temperature for SmCo, about 140 °C (280 °F) for neodymium may be less than 180 degrees F and even lower for flexible ceramics The exact numbers depend on the grade of material.

A Rare earth element (REE) established Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co permanent magnets are widely used due to their excellent magnetic properties. An electric car may use up to about 9 lbs of rare-earth magnets, while one of those wind turbines that now dot our landscape use upwards of 600 pounds of specifically neodymium (Nd).

China is the go to country for rare earth magnets making up for over 95% of mining of rare earth ore and manufacturing of neodymium & samarium cobalt permanent magnets.

You can see why this dependence on such a highly used material could create a strategic vulnerability for the United States and undermines our national security, competitiveness in the defense , clean-energy sectors & consumer electronics. Rare earth shortages also can cause significant supply-chain issues for U.S. technology companies.

Hence, the recycling of infrequent earth-based magnets has gained increasing attention and significance from the permanent magnet industry. Up to now, only very little amounts of REEs have been recycled out of pre-consumer magnet scrap. The objective of the project is to create a scalable, efficient and low-cost manufacturing method to recycle infrequent earth-based magnets from industrial scrap into precious magnetic alloys and high-performance magnets with tailored properties for certain applications.

Neodymium is part of the rare earth family of elements listed on the periodic table of the elements. Neodymium creates awesomely powerful magnets. Samarium Cobalt is the other material that is part of the rare earth family from which rare earth magnets are manufactured.

properly. Little magnets should always be kept away from small children and pets, as they can cause serious harm if they're swallowed. Very strong magnets, like neodymium magnets, can pull together with an extremely substantial force, pinching your fingers if they're caught in between. You always need to keep magnets away from digital devices, such as computers and mobile phones, and away from credit cards (or any other card with a magnetic strip). This is because the information on such devices can be stored using magnetic recording, and may be erased when it comes close to a strong magnetic field.

  What Is In This Category:

  Over 400 Neodymium Disc Magnet products listed

  Temp range Is Grade Specific

  Rare Earth - YES

  Disc magnets in Grades N35, N42, N45, N50 N52

  Neodymium disc magnets with Diameters 1/8” - More than 3 “

  Gauss 12,100 - 14,800

  3 Layer Coatings, Epoxy Plastic coated too on These Disc Magnets!

  Countersunk Neodymium Disc Magnets

  Pull Forces .36 - more than 600LBS

  What we here at CMS Magnetics concerning how clients select a magnets are by shape (1st) by style (2nd) by how powerful the magnet is (3nd)

  A below is a bare neodymium disc magnet. The Magnet has a 3 layer coating of nickel- copper -nickel for the magnets protection of the magnet itself.

  B is a neodymium disc magnet with a coating of epoxy which is a little tougher for protection of the magnet too.

  C is a neodymium disc magnet with a screw hole in it. The hole is countersunk allows the head of the screw to sink with the head flush even with the surface. This is a very useful feature in that it allows you to fasten a magnet to a non magnetic material such as wood or plastic

  D Allows for the mounting of a magnet to non magnetic materials that you may not want to put a screw into.

  E is a disc magnet typically used for lifting or magnet fishing. It is a neodymium disc magnet with a steel casing and a hook or loop to attach a rope to. The casing focuses the magnet’s collective power in one direction placing all of its strength in 1 direction instead of 4.

  Rare earth element (REE) established Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co permanent magnets Temperature

Temperature sensitivity varies, but when a magnet is heated to a temperature known as the Curie point, it loses all of its magnetism, even after cooling below that temperature. The magnets can often be remagnetized, however.

Additionally, some magnets are brittle and can fracture at high temperatures.

The maximum usable temperature is highest for alnico magnets at over 540 °C (1,000 °F), around 300 °C (570 °F) for ferrite and SmCo, about 140 °C (280 °F) for NIB and lower for flexible ceramics, but the exact numbers depend on the grade of material.

are widely used due to their excellent magnetic properties. An electric car like GM''s Chevrolet Volt utilizes seven pounds of rare-earth magnets, while every clean-energy wind turbine uses over 600 pounds of neodymium (Nd). China accounts for 97 percent of international REE manufacturing. This monopoly produces a strategic vulnerability for the United States and undermines our national security, competitiveness in the defense both the and clean-energy sectors. Rare earth shortages also can cause significant supply-chain issues for U.S. green energy and technology companies. In an ordinary neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B) magnet production center, about 20-30 percent of those magnets are wasted as scrap, which is an estimated 1,500-2,500 tons/year. In the event of Sm-Co magnets, about 15-30 percent of these raw materials are wasted as crap in a normal Sm-Co manufacturing site. Hence, the recycling of infrequent earth-based magnets has gained increasing attention and significance from the permanent magnet industry. Up to now, only very little amounts of REEs (estimated at 1%) have been recycled out of pre-consumer magnet scrap. The objective of the project is to create a scalable, efficient and low-cost manufacturing method to recycle infrequent earth-based magnets from industrial scrap into precious magnetic alloys and high-performance magnets with tailored properties for certain applications.

  Neodymium is part of the rare earth family of elements listed on the periodic table of the elements. Neodymium creates awesomely powerful magnets. Samarium Cobalt is the other material that is part of the rare earth family from which rare earth magnets are manufactured.

  Neodymium was discovered

  Rare Earth, a term for 16 separate elements found intermingled in the earth of which are used to make very strong magnets. These elements are mined in China for the most part but the US, Brazil, Australia and other countries do have significant deposits. These elements were discovered in the mid 1800s more and more uses for these amazing elements have been discovered since.

  Rare earth is a term coined for this collection of elements very soon after their discovery because they were actually thought to be scarce. As it turns out these elements are not rare at all but are just slightly less abundant than silicone, or sand.

  The separation segregation or these elements as well as the creation of an alloy that is part neodymium, part Iron part Boron (Nd Fe B). NdFeB are the chemical symbols for Neodymium, Iron Boron in that order.

  Neodymium is a rare earth element but Neodymium magnets are an alloy Alloy consisting of the three elements (Nd Fe B) Neodymium, Iron Boron. A magnet consisting of Neodymium is the most popular perhaps because it is the strongest magnetic material on the face of the planet.

  For The Engineer

  Temp range Grade Specific

  Rare Earth - YES

  Disc magnets in Grades N35, N42, N45, N50 N52

  Neodymium disc magnets with Diameters 1/8” - More than 3 “

  Gauss 12,100 - 14,800

  3 Layer Coatings, Epoxy Plastic coated too on These Disc Magnets!

  Countersunk N52 Rare Earth Magnets

  Pull Forces .36 - more than 600LBS

  Physicist

  Here Are A Few Important Facts About Neodymium.[1-2]

  Atomic Number: 60

  Atomic Weight: 144.242

  Boiling Point: 3347 K (3074°C Or 5565°F)

  Density (Solid): 7.01 Grams Per Cubic Centimeter

  Electron Configuration: [Xe] 4f46s2

  Element Classification: Metal

  Group Name: Lanthanide

  Group Number: None

  Melting Point: 1298 K (1025°C Or 1877ºF)

  Period Number: 6

  Phase At Room Temperature: Solid

  Neodymium Nd 60 144.242(3) G

  Some Changes To The Atomic Weight Of Both Neodymium Samarium

  Changes to the atomic weight of both Neodymium Samarium Both Recent Historically (Based on recommendations of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights)

  Recommended value for the standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) based on a new calibrated measurement by Zhao.

  Neodymium - Standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) This measurement

  Is a significant improvement in uncertainty from 0.03 to 0.003. This change was based on a new calibration measurement by Zhao. The change included measurements of samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no measurable variations.

  Historical values of Ar (Nd) include [6]: 1894, 140.5; 1897, 140.80; 1899, 143.6; 1909, 144.3; 1925, 144.27; 1961, 144.24(3); and 1969, 144.24(3).

  Samarium - Standard atomic weight of samarium to Ar (Sm) = 150.36(2) based on a new calibrated measurement by Chang et al. [9]. Chang et al. [9] included measurements of five samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no evidence of measurable variations.

  Historical values of Ar (Sm) include [6]: 1894, 150.0; 1897, 150.26; 1900, 150.3; 1903, 150; 1905, 150.3; 1909, 150.4; 1925, 150.43; 1955, 150.30; 1969, 150.4(1); and 1979, 150.36(3).

Neodymium was discovered

Rare-earth-free permanent magnets[edit]

The United States Department of Energy has identified a need to find substitutes for rare-earth metals in permanent-magnet technology and has begun funding such research. The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has sponsored a Rare Earth Alternatives in Critical Technologies (REACT) program, to develop alternative materials. In 2011, ARPA-E awarded 31.6 million dollars to fund Rare-Earth Substitute projects.[14]

made from alloys of rare-earth elements. Developed in the 1970s and 1980s, rare-earth magnets are the strongest type of permanent magnets made, producing significantly stronger magnetic fields than other types such as ferrite or alnico magnets. The magnetic field typically produced by rare-earth magnets can exceed 1.4 teslas, whereas ferrite or ceramic magnets typically exhibit fields of 0.5 to 1 tesla.

There are two types: neodymium magnets and samarium–cobalt magnets. Rare-earth magnets are extremely brittle and also vulnerable to corrosion, so they are usually plated or coated to protect them from breaking, chipping, or crumbling into powder.

The development of rare-earth magnets began around 1966, when K. J. Strnat and G. Hoffer of the US Air Force Materials Laboratory discovered that an alloy of yttrium and cobalt, YCo5, had by far the largest magnetic anisotropy constant of any material then known.The term "rare earth" can be misleading, as some of these metals can be[3][4] as abundant in the Earth's crust as tin or lead,[5] but rare earth ores do not exist in seams (like coal or copper), so in any given cubic kilometre of crust they are "rare". The major source is currently China.[6] Some countries classify rare earth metals as strategically important,[7] and recent Chinese export restrictions on these materials have led some to initiate research programs to develop strong magnets that do not require rare earth metals.

Neodymium magnets (small cylinders) lifting steel balls. As shown here, rare-earth magnets can easily lift thousands of times their own weight.

C

The rare-earth (lanthanide) elements are metals that are ferromagnetic, meaning that like iron they can be magnetized to become permanent magnets, but their Curie temperatures (the temperature above which their ferromagnetism disappears) are below room temperature, so in pure form their magnetism only appears at low temperatures. However, they form compounds with the transition metals such as iron, nickel, and cobalt, and some of these compounds have Curie temperatures well above room temperature. Rare-earth magnets are made from these compounds.

The greater strength of rare-earth magnets is mostly due to two factors:

  • First, their crystalline structures have very high magnetic anisotropy. This means that a crystal of the material preferentially magnetizes along a specific crystal axis but is very difficult to magnetize in other directions. Like other magnets, rare-earth magnets are composed of microcrystalline grains, which are aligned in a powerful magnetic field during manufacture, so their magnetic axes all point in the same direction. The resistance of the crystal lattice to turning its direction of magnetization gives these compounds a very high magnetic coercivity (resistance to being demagnetized), so that the strong demagnetizing field within the finished magnet does not reduce the material's magnetization.
  • Second, atoms of rare-earth elements can have high magnetic moments. Their orbital electron structures contain many unpaired electrons; in other elements, almost all of the electrons exist in pairs with opposite spins, so their magnetic fields cancel out, but in rare-earths there is much less magnetic cancellation. This is a consequence of incomplete filling of the f-shell, which can contain up to 7 unpaired electrons. In a magnet it is the unpaired electrons, aligned so they spin in the same direction, which generate the magnetic field. This gives the materials high remanence (saturation magnetizationJs ). The maximal energy density BHmax is proportional to Js2, so these materials have the potential for storing large amounts of magnetic energy. The magnetic energy product BHmax of neodymium magnets is about 18 times greater than "ordinary" magnets by volume. This allows rare-earth magnets to be smaller than other magnets with the same field strength.

Some important properties used to compare permanent magnets are: remanence (Br), which measures the strength of the magnetic field; coercivity (Hci), the material's resistance to becoming demagnetized; energy product (BHmax), the density of magnetic energy; and Curie temperature (TC), the temperature at which the material loses its magnetism. Rare-earth magnets have higher remanence, much higher coercivity and energy product, but (for neodymium) lower Curie temperature than other types. The table below compares the magnetic performance of the two types of rare-earth magnets, neodymium (Nd2Fe14B) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo5), with other types of permanent magnets.

MagnetpreparationBr

(T)

Hci

(kA/m)

BHmax

(kJ/m3)

TC

(°C)

Nd2Fe14Bsintered1.0–1.4750–2000200–440310–400
Nd2Fe14Bbonded0.6–0.7600–120060–100310–400
SmCo5sintered0.8–1.1600–2000120–200720
Sm(Co,Fe,Cu,Zr)7sintered0.9–1.15450–1300150–240800
Alnicosintered0.6–1.427510–88700–860
Sr-ferritesintered0.2–0.4100–30010–40450
Iron (Fe) bar magnetannealed?800[8]?770[9]

Samarium-cobalt

Samarium–cobalt magnets (chemical formula: SmCo5), the first family of rare-earth magnets invented, are less used than neodymium magnets because of their higher cost and lower magnetic field strength. However, samarium–cobalt has a higher Curie temperature, creating a niche for these magnets in applications where high field strength is needed at high operating temperatures. They are highly resistant to oxidation, but sintered samarium–cobalt magnets are brittle and prone to chipping and cracking and may fracture when subjected to thermal shock.

Neodymium[edit]

Neodymium magnet with nickel plating mostly removed

Neodymium magnets, invented in the 1980s, are the strongest and most affordable type of rare-earth magnet. They are made of an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron (Nd2Fe14B), sometimes abbreviated as NIB. Neodymium magnets are used in numerous applications requiring strong, compact permanent magnets, such as electric motors for cordless tools, hard disk drives, magnetic holdd owns, and jewelry clasps. They have the highest magnetic field strength and have a higher coercivity (which makes them magnetically stable), but they have a lower Curie temperature and are more vulnerable to oxidation than samarium–cobalt magnets.

Corrosion can cause unprotected magnets to spall off a surface layer or to crumble into a powder. Use of protective surface treatments such as gold, nickel, zinc, and tin plating and epoxy-resin coating can provide corrosion protection; the majority of neodymium magnets use nickel plating to provide a robust protection.

Originally, the high cost of these magnets limited their use to applications requiring compactness together with high field strength. Both the raw materials and the patent licenses were expensive. However, since the 1990s, NIB magnets have become steadily less expensive, and their lower cost has inspired new uses such as magnetic construction toys.

Hazards[edit]

The greater force exerted by rare-earth magnets creates hazards that are not seen with other types of magnet. Magnets larger than a few centimeters are strong enough to cause injuries to body parts pinched between two magnets or a magnet and a metal surface, even causing broken bones.[10] Magnets allowed to get too near each other can strike each other with enough force to chip and shatter the brittle material, and the flying chips can cause injuries. Starting in 2005, powerful magnets breaking off toys or from magnetic construction sets started causing injuries and deaths.[11] Young children who have swallowed several magnets have had a fold of the digestive tract pinched between the magnets, causing injury and in one case intestinal perforations, sepsis, and death.[12]

A voluntary standard for toys, permanently fusing strong magnets to prevent swallowing, and capping unconnected magnet strength, was adopted in 2007.[11] In 2009, a sudden growth in sales of magnetic desk toys for adults caused a surge in injuries, with emergency room visits estimated at 3,617 in 2012.[11] In response, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission passed a rule in 2012 restricting rare-earth magnet size in consumer products, but it was vacated by a US federal court decision in November 2016, in a case brought by the one remaining manufacturer.[13] After the rule was nullified, the number of ingestion incidents in the country rose sharply, and is estimated to exceed 1,500 in 2019.[11]

Further information: Neodymium magnet toys

Applications[edit]

Since their prices became competitive in the 1990s, neodymium magnets have been replacing alnico and ferrite magnets in the many applications in modern technology requiring powerful magnets. Their greater strength allows smaller and lighter magnets to be used for a given application.

Some Changes to the Atomic Weight of Both Neodymium & Samarium

Changes to the atomic weight of both Neodymium & Samarium Both Recent & Historically (Based on recommendations of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights)

Recommended value for the standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) based on a new calibrated measurement by Zhao.

Neodymium - Standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) This measurement

Is a significant improvement in uncertainty from 0.03 to 0.003. This change was based on a new calibration measurement by Zhao. The change included measurements of samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no measurable variations.

Historical values of Ar (Nd) include [6]: 1894, 140.5; 1897, 140.80; 1899, 143.6; 1909, 144.3; 1925, 144.27; 1961, 144.24(3); and 1969, 144.24(3).

Samarium - Standard atomic weight of samarium to Ar (Sm) = 150.36(2) based on a new calibrated measurement by Chang et al. [9]. Chang et al. [9] included measurements of five samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no evidence of measurable variations.

Historical values of Ar (Sm) include [6]: 1894, 150.0; 1897, 150.26; 1900, 150.3; 1903, 150; 1905, 150.3; 1909, 150.4; 1925, 150.43; 1955, 150.30; 1969, 150.4(1); and 1979, 150.36(3).

(Based on recommendations of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights)

NEODYMIUM

Isotope

Atomic mass (Da)

Isotopic abundance (amount fraction)

If you have not experienced these magnetics, these magnetic discs seemingly defy physics NOW is the time! CMS Magnetics & Disc Magnets For Sale carry a wide Variety of Neodymium disc Magnets in all grades. CMS has neodymium disc magnets wholesale, Reail & Bulk pricing.

Order your disc Magnets Online or Over the Phone.

large neodymium disc magnetsIn this category CMS has the Strong neodymium disc magnets with epoxy coatings and disc magnets with a countersunk hole already drilled in the middle to attach it to nonmetallic materials such as wood or plastic. This feature at least doubles their usefulness. These neodymium disc magnets even allow the screw’s head to reside below or even with the face of the disc magnet ensuring it does not interfere with the magnet’s function.

Our aim is to keep you happy by providing you with the friendliest customer service & best products out there. We also offer a 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE for 30 days on your disc magnets.

CMS has neodymium disc magnets wholesale, Reail & Bulk pricing.

These strong disc magnets small wonders of physics are Coated with Ni+Cu+Ni Triple Layer Coating ,nickel, copper and nickel to give superior corrosion resistance and provide a smooth and clean finish like stainless steel for your disc magnets.

In Many cases, you can order your magnetic discs with a specialized extra coating of epoxy or plastic if your application requires it, making them even more useful.

neodymium disc magnets

These Neodymium Disc Magnets are a whopping 10-14 times Stronger than the strongest ceramic disc magnet. These rare earth disc magnets are the stuff of science fiction, here & now!

So many applications for these strong disc magnets: strong disc magnets in Homes strong disc magnets in WorkShops DIY Science Hobby Sorting metal items with strong disc magnets Hold things up with strong disc magnets Hold things down with strong disc magnets Homes Hobby Crafts Office and Much More.

Safety Warning: These strong neodymium disc magnets are not suitable for children. They may break and cut severely. Children that may place things in their mouths should be kept away from these magnets. If taken into the mouth theseStrong neodymium magnets may pinch across internal organ membranes with deadly results. Never put these in your mouth.

My finger story

Strong Neodymium Disc Magnets

FAQs (Some Questions We Get at CMS) Typically Jeff & Juan

Q. What are the strongest magnets?

A. The strongest permanent magnets are rare earth magnets. The rare earth magnet's family consists of samarium cobalt magnets & Neodymium magnets. The neodymium magnets at grade n52 are currently the strongest magnets worldwide & truly are "industrial strength" rare earth magnets.

Q. What is a permanent magnet?

A. A permanent magnet is a magnet that cannot be turned off as in an electro-magnet. All neodymium magnets are permanent (always attracting)

Q. What is rare earth and where does it come from?6-pack-disc-magnets3.jpg

Rare earth is an ore dug from the earth, primarily in China that has 15 metal chemical elements having atomic numbers 57-71. You can find these elements near the bottom of the Periodic Table of the Elements in the lanthanides family.

Q. Where is neodymium found?

A. Neodymium is mined as an ore primarily in China. China is also where almost all of the processing into the neodymium alloy (that we know as neodymium) is done. Neodymium alloy consists of Neodymium, Iron & Boron. Still in China, alloy is shaped into discs, cylinders, rectangles, spheres & more that we know as finished magnets.

n42-neodymium-disc-magnet-epoxy-coated-on-sale-1

Neodymium magnets overall, are the world's strongest permanent magnets. Although, not all neodymium Disc magnets share the same characteristics. The Grade of a Neodymium Magnet will provide an idea of the strength of a neodymium magnet. The most common commercially available grades generally run N35- N52. N35 is the weakest (but by no means weak) and N52 is currently the strongest. There are some special use grades as well. A larger piece of neodymium of a weaker grade may be ultimately stronger than a smaller but higher grade piece. Our strong disc magnets are designed & manufactured to meet stringent quality standards of both external and our own standards.

Neodymium disc magnets Are The Popular Choice For Homes, disc magnets at Work, disc magnets in Shops, DIY, Science, magnetic discs for Hobby & Crafts, Office, Fridge, Science, Fair, Just Plain Fun, magnet discs for Alternative, Medicine, magnet discs for Sorting Metal Items, magnet discs Hold Things Up, round disc magnets Hold Things Down, round disc magnets as Duvet, Cover Closures, Hanging, Art, Scarves, Jewelry, Belts, Handbags & round disc magnets for Classroom Decorations

Magnets are useful and fun, but can also be dangerous if they aren't handled properly. Little magnets should always be kept away from small children and pets, as they can cause serious harm if they're swallowed. Very strong magnets, like neodymium magnets, can pull together with an extremely substantial force, pinching your fingers if they're caught in between. You always need to keep magnets away from digital devices, such as computers and mobile phones, and away from credit cards (or any other card with a magnetic strip). This is because the information on such devices can be stored using magnetic recording, and may be erased when it comes close to a strong magnetic field. If you're performing a CMS Magnetics project involving magnets, make sure you read the safety precautions for this particular project prior to starting.

Science Fair Projects

Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-proje...

An electric current produces a magnetic field. You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit? (Math, 1981, 13; Gardner, 2004, 80-85)

You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit?

Bibliography

  • Gardner, R., 2004. Electricity and Magnetism Science Fair Projects: Using Batteries, Balloons, and Other Hair-Raising Stuff. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers.

  • Math, I., 1981. Wires and Watts: Understanding and Using Electricity. New York, NY: Charles Scribner's Sons.

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Elec_p044/electricity-electronics/using-a-magnet-as-an-electrical-current-detector




Summary of Key ConceptsEvery magnet has a north pole and a south pole. A north and a south pole draw each other, whereas similar rods (north-north or south-south) push each other away. Magnets are surrounded by a magnetic field, which produces a push or a pull on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. Magnets (especially neodymium or rare earth magnets) can be dangerous; always read the safety precautions before you handle them. These pages explain the science behind how magnets work. Before you continue reading, see our short video about magnetism:A brief introductory video to magnets and electromagnets. Keep on reading for more details. When playing with magnets, you likely noticed that a magnet can be used to attract certain materials or items, but not others. Figure 9, below, shows a magnet picking up metal screws and paper clips, but having no impact on timber, rubber, Styrofoam®, or newspaper. A magnet can be used to pick up many metal objects, such as screws or paper clips (left), but has no effect on some materials, including plastic, rubber, timber, or even certain metals (right). If you have ever played with two or more magnets simultaneously, you probably noticed that magnets may either attract or repel each other, depending on how they are positioned. This is because every magnet has a north pole plus a south pole. Opposite poles attract each other (south and north ) and similar poles repel each other (north-north or south-south). Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole. Opposite poles pull toward each other, and comparable sticks push away from each other. If you watched the video above, you might have noticed that magnetic poles can push and pull on each other without touching each other. Magnets can do so because they're surrounded by a magnetic field. It's the magnetic field that creates the force (a push or a pull) on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. The magnetic field gets weaker as you get farther and farther away from a magnet; therefore magnets can be quite powerful up close, but they do not have much of an effect on objects (like other magnets) which are very far away.Magnetic fields are invisible; you can't see them with your eyes. So, how do we know they're there, or what they look like? Scientists signify the invisible magnetic field by drawing magnetic field lines. These are lines that stage from the north pole to the south pole outside the magnet (inside the magnet they point from the south pole to the north pole). The magnetic field is strongest (or the magnet has the strongest pull or push other magnetic material) where these lines are bunched closely together, and weakest where they are spaced farther apart. A frequent method to visualize magnetic field lines would be to sprinkle many miniature iron filings near a magnet. On the left, magnetic field lines point from the north pole of a magnet to the south pole away from the magnet (image credit Wikimedia Commons user Geek3, 2010). On the right, you can see these lines using iron filings. You can even detect a magnetic field by using a compass. A compass--such as the one displayed in Figure 12--is actually a small bar magnet that is free to rotate on a pivot. A compass is a device with a rotating magnetic needle which can be used to navigate. The N, S, E and W on the compass stand for north, south, east, and west, respectively. In this image, the N and S are partially hidden behind the needle. Normally, a compass will align with Earth's magnetic field, so its needle will align itself about with the geographic north-south direction (not perfectly, though; there is truly a slight offset between Earth's magnetic and geographic poles). It follows that a compass can be used to navigate so you can determine which directions are north, south, east, and west. However, if you bring a compass quite close to another magnet, that magnet will have a stronger effect on the needle compared to Earth's magnetic field. The compass needle will align with the local (or"nearby") magnetic field (the traces shown in Figure 11).Earth actually acts like it's a large"upside-down" bar magnet inside of it. The south pole of the bar magnet is actually close (but not perfectly lined up with) Earth's north pole, and vice versa. This may be confusing; simply look at Figure 13 in the event you will need to remember which end of the compass needle is that!Figure 13. You can imagine Earth's magnetic field like there is a giant bar magnet buried inside Earth. The magnet's south pole is close to Earth's geographical north pole, and the magnet's north pole is close to Earth's geographic south pole. Earth's magnetic and geographic poles do not line up with each other perfectly, but they are very close. There are numerous distinct types of magnets. Permanent magnets are magnets which permanently retain their magnetic field. This is different from a temporary magnet, which usually only has a magnetic field when it's placed in a bigger, stronger magnetic field, or if electrical current flows through it. The bar magnet and paper clips from Figure 9 are examples of permanent and temporary magnets, respectively. The bar magnet is surrounded by a magnetic field, so it's a permanent magnet. The paper clips do not normally have a magnetic field; Quite simply, you can't use one paper clip to pick up another paper clip. But when you bring the bar magnet near the paper clips, they become magnetized and act like magnets, so they are temporary magnets. Another sort of temporary magnet, called an electromagnet, uses power to create a magnet. Watch the Electromagnetism tab to learn more about electromagnets.In everyday language, we usually just refer to magnets, and materials that are attracted to magnets, as"magnetic." Technically, these materials are known as ferromagnetic. It's important to remember that not all metals are ferromagnetic. You will see this if you try to get a copper penny or a sheet of aluminum foil using a magnet. The most common ferromagnetic metals are iron, nickel, and cobalt.Ferromagnetic material contains many tiny magnetic domains at the microscopic level. Normally, these domains point randomly in all different directions, so all the tiny magnetic fields cancel each other out, and the overall material is not surrounded by a magnetic field. However, when a material is magnetized (usually by putting it in a strong magnetic field), each one these little magnetic fields line up, creating an overall larger magnetic field.Figure 14. In ferromagnetic material, miniature magnetic fields can be oriented randomly in different directions, canceling each other out. In cases like this, the material will not show magnetic features (left). When the magnetic fields lineup and all point in the same way, they combine and generate a large magnetic field. The material will then demonstrate the characteristic of a magnet (right). How, exactly, the little magnetic fields are generated depends on how electrons move inside atoms. To find out more about electricity and electrons, see the Static Electricity tab.

Common applications[edit]

Neodymium magnet balls

Common applications of rare-earth magnets include:

Other applications[edit]

Other applications of rare-earth magnets include:

Rare-earth-free permanent magnets[edit]

The United States Department of Energy has identified a need to find substitutes for rare-earth metals in permanent-magnet technology and has begun funding such research. The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) has sponsored a Rare Earth Alternatives in Critical Technologies (REACT) program, to develop alternative materials. In 2011, ARPA-E awarded 31.6 million dollars to fund Rare-Earth Substitute projects.[14]

Recycling efforts[edit]

The European Union's ETN-Demeter project (European Training Network for the Design and Recycling of Rare-Earth Permanent Magnet Motors and Generators in Hybrid and Full Electric Vehicles)[15] is examining sustainable design of electric motors used in vehicles. They are, for example, designing electric motors in which the magnets can be easily removed for recycling the rare earth metals.

The European Union's European Research Council also awarded to Principal Investigator, Prof. Thomas Zemb, and co-Principal Investigator, Dr. Jean-Christophe P. Gabriel, an Advanced Research Grant for the project "Rare Earth Element reCYCling with Low harmful Emissions : REE-CYCLE", which aimed at finding new processes for the recycling of rare earth.[16]

For more information about Neodymium and the magnets that are produced from it written to your level of expertise press the link

Newbie / hobbyist / DIYer (Written for those with little or no magnet knowledge)

Rare earth element (REE) established Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co permanent magnets are widely used due to their excellent magnetic properties. An electric car like GM''s Chevrolet Volt utilizes seven pounds of rare-earth magnets, while every clean-energy wind turbine uses over 600 pounds of neodymium (Nd). China accounts for 97 percent of international REE manufacturing. This monopoly produces a strategic vulnerability for the United States and undermines our national security, competitiveness in the defense both the and clean-energy sectors. Rare earth shortages also can cause significant supply-chain issues for U.S. green energy and technology companies. In an ordinary neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B) magnet production center, about 20-30 percent of those magnets are wasted as scrap, which is an estimated 1,500-2,500 tons/year. In the event of Sm-Co magnets, about 15-30 percent of these raw materials are wasted as crap in a normal Sm-Co manufacturing site. Hence, the recycling of infrequent earth-based magnets has gained increasing attention and significance from the permanent magnet industry. Up to now, only very little amounts of REEs (estimated at 1%) have been recycled out of pre-consumer magnet scrap. The objective of the project is to create a scalable, efficient and low-cost manufacturing method to recycle infrequent earth-based magnets from industrial scrap into precious magnetic alloys and high-performance magnets with tailored properties for certain applications.

Neodymium is part of the rare earth family of elements listed on the periodic table of the elements. Neodymium creates awesomely powerful magnets. Samarium Cobalt is the other material that is part of the rare earth family from which rare earth magnets are manufactured.

Neodymium was discovered

Rare Earth, a term for 16 separate elements found intermingled in the earth 2 of which are used to make very strong magnets. These elements are mined in China for the most part but the US, Brazil, Australia and other countries do have significant deposits. These elements were discovered in the mid 1800s & more and more uses for these amazing elements have been discovered since.

Rare earth is a term coined for this collection of elements very soon after their discovery because they were actually thought to be scarce. As it turns out these elements are not rare at all but are just slightly less abundant than silicone, or sand.

The separation & segregation or these elements as well as the creation of an alloy that is part neodymium, part Iron & part Boron (Nd Fe B). NdFeB are the chemical symbols for Neodymium, Iron & Boron in that order.

Neodymium is a rare earth element but Neodymium magnets are an alloy Alloy consisting of the three elements (Nd Fe B) Neodymium, Iron & Boron. A magnet consisting of Neodymium is the most popular perhaps because it is the strongest magnetic material on the face of the planet.

For The Engineer

What Is In This Category ? About Neodymium Disc Magnets for sale from CMS Magnetics.

Over 400 Neodymium Disc Magnet products listed

Temp range Grade Specific

Rare Earth - YES

Disc magnets in Grades N35, N42, N45, N50 & N52

Neodymium disc magnets with Diameters 1/8” - More than 3 “

Gauss 12,100 - 14,800

3 Layer Coatings, Epoxy & Plastic coated too on These Disc Magnets!

Countersunk Neodymium Disc Magnets

Pull Forces .36 - more than 600LBS

Physicist

Here are a few important facts about neodymium.[1-2]Atomic number: 60Atomic weight: 144.242Boiling point: 3347 K (3074°C or 5565°F)Density (solid): 7.01 grams per cubic centimeterElectron configuration: [Xe] 4f46s2Element classification: MetalGroup name: LanthanideGroup number: noneMelting point: 1298 K (1025°C or 1877ºF)Period number: 6Phase at room temperature: Solidneodymium Nd 60 144.242(3) gSome Changes to the Atomic Weight of Both Neodymium & Samarium

Changes to the atomic weight of both Neodymium & Samarium Both Recent & Historically (Based on recommendations of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights)

Recommended value for the standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) based on a new calibrated measurement by Zhao.

Neodymium - Standard atomic weight of neodymium to Ar (Nd) = 144.242(3) This measurement

Is a significant improvement in uncertainty from 0.03 to 0.003. This change was based on a new calibration measurement by Zhao. The change included measurements of samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no measurable variations.

Historical values of Ar (Nd) include [6]: 1894, 140.5; 1897, 140.80; 1899, 143.6; 1909, 144.3; 1925, 144.27; 1961, 144.24(3); and 1969, 144.24(3).

Samarium - Standard atomic weight of samarium to Ar (Sm) = 150.36(2) based on a new calibrated measurement by Chang et al. [9]. Chang et al. [9] included measurements of five samples from China, the United States, and Japan in their study and found no evidence of measurable variations.

Historical values of Ar (Sm) include [6]: 1894, 150.0; 1897, 150.26; 1900, 150.3; 1903, 150; 1905, 150.3; 1909, 150.4; 1925, 150.43; 1955, 150.30; 1969, 150.4(1); and 1979, 150.36(3).

(Based on recommendations of the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights)

NEODYMIUM

IsotopeAtomic mass (Da)Isotopic abundance (amount fraction)
142Nd141.907 73(1)0.271 52(40)
144Nd143.910 09(1)0.237 98(19)
146Nd145.913 12(1)0.171 89(32)
143Nd142.909 82(1)0.121 74(26)
145Nd144.912 58(1)0.082 93(12)
148Nd147.916 90(2)0.057 56(21)
150Nd149.920 902(9)0.056 38(28)

If you have not experienced these magnetics, these magnetic discs seemingly defy physics NOW is the time! CMS Magnetics & Disc Magnets For Sale carry a wide Variety of Neodymium disc Magnets in all grades. CMS has neodymium disc magnets wholesale, Reail & Bulk pricing.Order your disc Magnets Online or Over the Phone.In this category CMS has the Strong neodymium disc magnets with epoxy coatings and disc magnets with a countersunk hole already drilled in the middle to attach it to nonmetallic materials such as wood or plastic. This feature at least doubles their usefulness. These neodymium disc magnets even allow the screw’s head to reside below or even with the face of the disc magnet ensuring it does not interfere with the magnet’s function.Our aim is to keep you happy by providing you with the friendliest customer service & best products out there. We also offer a 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE for 30 days on your disc magnets.CMS has neodymium disc magnets wholesale, Reail & Bulk pricing.These strong disc magnets small wonders of physics are Coated with Ni+Cu+Ni Triple Layer Coating ,nickel, copper and nickel to give superior corrosion resistance and provide a smooth and clean finish like stainless steel for your disc magnets.In Many cases, you can order your magnetic discs with a specialized extra coating of epoxy or plastic if your application requires it, making them even more useful.These Neodymium Disc Magnets are a whopping 10-14 times Stronger than the strongest ceramic disc magnet. These rare earth disc magnets are the stuff of science fiction, here & now!So many applications for these strong disc magnets: strong disc magnets in Homes strong disc magnets in WorkShops DIY Science Hobby Sorting metal items with strong disc magnets Hold things up with strong disc magnets Hold things down with strong disc magnets Homes Hobby Crafts Office and Much More.Safety Warning: These strong neodymium disc magnets are not suitable for children. They may break and cut severely. Children that may place things in their mouths should be kept away from these magnets. If taken into the mouth theseStrong neodymium magnets may pinch across internal organ membranes with deadly results. Never put these in your mouth.

My finger story

Strong Neodymium Disc MagnetsFAQs (Some Questions We Get at CMS) Typically Jeff & JuanQ. What are the strongest magnets?A. The strongest permanent magnets are rare earth magnets. The rare earth magnet's family consists of samarium cobalt magnets & Neodymium magnets. The neodymium magnets at grade n52 are currently the strongest magnets worldwide & truly are "industrial strength" rare earth magnets.Q. What is a permanent magnet?A. A permanent magnet is a magnet that cannot be turned off as in an electro-magnet. All neodymium magnets are permanent (always attracting)Q. What is rare earth and where does it come from?Rare earth is an ore dug from the earth, primarily in China that has 15 metal chemical elements having atomic numbers 57-71. You can find these elements near the bottom of the Periodic Table of the Elements in the lanthanides family.Q. Where is neodymium found?A. Neodymium is mined as an ore primarily in China. China is also where almost all of the processing into the neodymium alloy (that we know as neodymium) is done. Neodymium alloy consists of Neodymium, Iron & Boron. Still in China, alloy is shaped into discs, cylinders, rectangles, spheres & more that we know as finished magnets.Neodymium magnets overall, are the world's strongest permanent magnets. Although, not all neodymium Disc magnets share the same characteristics. The Grade of a Neodymium Magnet will provide an idea of the strength of a neodymium magnet. The most common commercially available grades generally run N35- N52. N35 is the weakest (but by no means weak) and N52 is currently the strongest. There are some special use grades as well. A larger piece of neodymium of a weaker grade may be ultimately stronger than a smaller but higher grade piece. Our strong disc magnets are designed & manufactured to meet stringent quality standards of both external and our own standards.Neodymium disc magnets Are The Popular Choice For Homes, disc magnets at Work, disc magnets in Shops, DIY, Science, magnetic discs for Hobby & Crafts, Office, Fridge, Science, Fair, Just Plain Fun, magnet discs for Alternative, Medicine, magnet discs for Sorting Metal Items, magnet discs Hold Things Up, round disc magnets Hold Things Down, round disc magnets as Duvet, Cover Closures, Hanging, Art, Scarves, Jewelry, Belts, Handbags & round disc magnets for Classroom Decorations

Magnets are useful and fun, but can also be dangerous if they aren't handled properly. Little magnets should always be kept away from small children and pets, as they can cause serious harm if they're swallowed. Very strong magnets, like neodymium magnets, can pull together with an extremely substantial force, pinching your fingers if they're caught in between. You always need to keep magnets away from digital devices, such as computers and mobile phones, and away from credit cards (or any other card with a magnetic strip). This is because the information on such devices can be stored using magnetic recording, and may be erased when it comes close to a strong magnetic field. If you're performing a CMS Magnetics project involving magnets, make sure you read the safety precautions for this particular project prior to starting.

Science Fair ProjectsUsing a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-proje...

An electric current produces a magnetic field. You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit? (Math, 1981, 13; Gardner, 2004, 80-85)You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit?Bibliography

  • Gardner, R., 2004. Electricity and Magnetism Science Fair Projects: Using Batteries, Balloons, and Other Hair-Raising Stuff. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers.
  • Math, I., 1981. Wires and Watts: Understanding and Using Electricity. New York, NY: Charles Scribner's Sons.

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Elec_p044/electricity-electronics/using-a-magnet-as-an-electrical-current-detector

Summary of Key ConceptsEvery magnet has a north pole and a south pole. A north and a south pole draw each other, whereas similar rods (north-north or south-south) push each other away. Magnets are surrounded by a magnetic field, which produces a push or a pull on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. Magnets (especially neodymium or rare earth magnets) can be dangerous; always read the safety precautions before you handle them. These pages explain the science behind how magnets work. Before you continue reading, see our short video about magnetism:A brief introductory video to magnets and electromagnets. Keep on reading for more details. When playing with magnets, you likely noticed that a magnet can be used to attract certain materials or items, but not others. Figure 9, below, shows a magnet picking up metal screws and paper clips, but having no impact on timber, rubber, Styrofoam®, or newspaper. A magnet can be used to pick up many metal objects, such as screws or paper clips (left), but has no effect on some materials, including plastic, rubber, timber, or even certain metals (right). If you have ever played with two or more magnets simultaneously, you probably noticed that magnets may either attract or repel each other, depending on how they are positioned. This is because every magnet has a north pole plus a south pole. Opposite poles attract each other (south and north ) and similar poles repel each other (north-north or south-south). Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole. Opposite poles pull toward each other, and comparable sticks push away from each other. If you watched the video above, you might have noticed that magnetic poles can push and pull on each other without touching each other. Magnets can do so because they're surrounded by a magnetic field. It's the magnetic field that creates the force (a push or a pull) on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. The magnetic field gets weaker as you get farther and farther away from a magnet; therefore magnets can be quite powerful up close, but they do not have much of an effect on objects (like other magnets) which are very far away.Magnetic fields are invisible; you can't see them with your eyes. So, how do we know they're there, or what they look like? Scientists signify the invisible magnetic field by drawing magnetic field lines. These are lines that stage from the north pole to the south pole outside the magnet (inside the magnet they point from the south pole to the north pole). The magnetic field is strongest (or the magnet has the strongest pull or push other magnetic material) where these lines are bunched closely together, and weakest where they are spaced farther apart. A frequent method to visualize magnetic field lines would be to sprinkle many miniature iron filings near a magnet. On the left, magnetic field lines point from the north pole of a magnet to the south pole away from the magnet (image credit Wikimedia Commons user Geek3, 2010). On the right, you can see these lines using iron filings. You can even detect a magnetic field by using a compass. A compass--such as the one displayed in Figure 12--is actually a small bar magnet that is free to rotate on a pivot. A compass is a device with a rotating magnetic needle which can be used to navigate. The N, S, E and W on the compass stand for north, south, east, and west, respectively. In this image, the N and S are partially hidden behind the needle. Normally, a compass will align with Earth's magnetic field, so its needle will align itself about with the geographic north-south direction (not perfectly, though; there is truly a slight offset between Earth's magnetic and geographic poles). It follows that a compass can be used to navigate so you can determine which directions are north, south, east, and west. However, if you bring a compass quite close to another magnet, that magnet will have a stronger effect on the needle compared to Earth's magnetic field. The compass needle will align with the local (or"nearby") magnetic field (the traces shown in Figure 11).Earth actually acts like it's a large"upside-down" bar magnet inside of it. The south pole of the bar magnet is actually close (but not perfectly lined up with) Earth's north pole, and vice versa. This may be confusing; simply look at Figure 13 in the event you will need to remember which end of the compass needle is that!Figure 13. You can imagine Earth's magnetic field like there is a giant bar magnet buried inside Earth. The magnet's south pole is close to Earth's geographical north pole, and the magnet's north pole is close to Earth's geographic south pole. Earth's magnetic and geographic poles do not line up with each other perfectly, but they are very close. There are numerous distinct types of magnets. Permanent magnets are magnets which permanently retain their magnetic field. This is different from a temporary magnet, which usually only has a magnetic field when it's placed in a bigger, stronger magnetic field, or if electrical current flows through it. The bar magnet and paper clips from Figure 9 are examples of permanent and temporary magnets, respectively. The bar magnet is surrounded by a magnetic field, so it's a permanent magnet. The paper clips do not normally have a magnetic field; Quite simply, you can't use one paper clip to pick up another paper clip. But when you bring the bar magnet near the paper clips, they become magnetized and act like magnets, so they are temporary magnets. Another sort of temporary magnet, called an electromagnet, uses power to create a magnet. Watch the Electromagnetism tab to learn more about electromagnets.In everyday language, we usually just refer to magnets, and materials that are attracted to magnets, as"magnetic." Technically, these materials are known as ferromagnetic. It's important to remember that not all metals are ferromagnetic. You will see this if you try to get a copper penny or a sheet of aluminum foil using a magnet. The most common ferromagnetic metals are iron, nickel, and cobalt.Ferromagnetic material contains many tiny magnetic domains at the microscopic level. Normally, these domains point randomly in all different directions, so all the tiny magnetic fields cancel each other out, and the overall material is not surrounded by a magnetic field. However, when a material is magnetized (usually by putting it in a strong magnetic field), each one these little magnetic fields line up, creating an overall larger magnetic field.Figure 14. In ferromagnetic material, miniature magnetic fields can be oriented randomly in different directions, canceling each other out. In cases like this, the material will not show magnetic features (left). When the magnetic fields lineup and all point in the same way, they combine and generate a large magnetic field. The material will then demonstrate the characteristic of a magnet (right). How, exactly, the little magnetic fields are generated depends on how electrons move inside atoms. To find out more about electricity and electrons, see the Static Electricity tab.








Science Fair ProjectsUsing a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-proje...

An electric current produces a magnetic field. You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit? (Math, 1981, 13; Gardner, 2004, 80-85)You can take advantage of the fact to generate a simple apparatus to check the electrical conductivity of different materials, including both solids and fluids. The detector is composed of a coil of cable, using a magnetic compass within it. You connect one end of the coil into a D-cell battery. The opposite end of the coil is attached to whatever material you're testing, and the substance, then, is attached to the opposite end of this D-cell. To put it differently, the coil is connected in series with whatever material you're testing. To create the coil, use about 10 m (33 ft ) of insulated, 24 gauge cable. It is possible to use a roll of duct tape (or something similar) as the shape for wrap the coil. Leave 30 cm (about a foot) of cable loose at each end of the coil for linking it up to your own circuit. Stand the coil onto its side (you can prop it up with clay to keep it from rolling). Fold a sheet of cardboard to produce a platform for the magnetic compass in the middle of the coil. To examine conductivity of a liquid, then use paper clips recorded on either side of a plastic cup as connectors. When testing different substances, join the battery just long enough to observe the compass needle motion, so the battery will last longer. Other ideas you may research: Learn about the"right hand rule" for magnetic fields created by electrical current. Does the compass needle move as expected based on the perfect hand rule? Learn about Ohm's law and try your sensor in circuits with assorted resistors. Is there a connection between how much the compass needle moves and the current flow in the circuit?Bibliography

  • Gardner, R., 2004. Electricity and Magnetism Science Fair Projects: Using Batteries, Balloons, and Other Hair-Raising Stuff. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers.
  • Math, I., 1981. Wires and Watts: Understanding and Using Electricity. New York, NY: Charles Scribner's Sons.

Science Buddies Staff. (2017, July 28). Using a Magnet as an Electrical Current Detector. Retrieved from https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Elec_p044/electricity-electronics/using-a-magnet-as-an-electrical-current-detector

Summary of Key ConceptsEvery magnet has a north pole and a south pole. A north and a south pole draw each other, whereas similar rods (north-north or south-south) push each other away. Magnets are surrounded by a magnetic field, which produces a push or a pull on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. Magnets (especially neodymium or rare earth magnets) can be dangerous; always read the safety precautions before you handle them. These pages explain the science behind how magnets work. Before you continue reading, see our short video about magnetism:A brief introductory video to magnets and electromagnets. Keep on reading for more details. When playing with magnets, you likely noticed that a magnet can be used to attract certain materials or items, but not others. Figure 9, below, shows a magnet picking up metal screws and paper clips, but having no impact on timber, rubber, Styrofoam®, or newspaper. A magnet can be used to pick up many metal objects, such as screws or paper clips (left), but has no effect on some materials, including plastic, rubber, timber, or even certain metals (right). If you have ever played with two or more magnets simultaneously, you probably noticed that magnets may either attract or repel each other, depending on how they are positioned. This is because every magnet has a north pole plus a south pole. Opposite poles attract each other (south and north ) and similar poles repel each other (north-north or south-south). Every magnet has a north pole and a south pole. Opposite poles pull toward each other, and comparable sticks push away from each other. If you watched the video above, you might have noticed that magnetic poles can push and pull on each other without touching each other. Magnets can do so because they're surrounded by a magnetic field. It's the magnetic field that creates the force (a push or a pull) on other magnets or magnetic substances in the area. The magnetic field gets weaker as you get farther and farther away from a magnet; therefore magnets can be quite powerful up close, but they do not have much of an effect on objects (like other magnets) which are very far away.Magnetic fields are invisible; you can't see them with your eyes. So, how do we know they're there, or what they look like? Scientists signify the invisible magnetic field by drawing magnetic field lines. These are lines that stage from the north pole to the south pole outside the magnet (inside the magnet they point from the south pole to the north pole). The magnetic field is strongest (or the magnet has the strongest pull or push other magnetic material) where these lines are bunched closely together, and weakest where they are spaced farther apart. A frequent method to visualize magnetic field lines would be to sprinkle many miniature iron filings near a magnet. On the left, magnetic field lines point from the north pole of a magnet to the south pole away from the magnet (image credit Wikimedia Commons user Geek3, 2010). On the right, you can see these lines using iron filings. You can even detect a magnetic field by using a compass. A compass--such as the one displayed in Figure 12--is actually a small bar magnet that is free to rotate on a pivot. A compass is a device with a rotating magnetic needle which can be used to navigate. The N, S, E and W on the compass stand for north, south, east, and west, respectively. In this image, the N and S are partially hidden behind the needle. Normally, a compass will align with Earth's magnetic field, so its needle will align itself about with the geographic north-south direction (not perfectly, though; there is truly a slight offset between Earth's magnetic and geographic poles). It follows that a compass can be used to navigate so you can determine which directions are north, south, east, and west. However, if you bring a compass quite close to another magnet, that magnet will have a stronger effect on the needle compared to Earth's magnetic field. The compass needle will align with the local (or"nearby") magnetic field (the traces shown in Figure 11).Earth actually acts like it's a large"upside-down" bar magnet inside of it. The south pole of the bar magnet is actually close (but not perfectly lined up with) Earth's north pole, and vice versa. This may be confusing; simply look at Figure 13 in the event you will need to remember which end of the compass needle is that!Figure 13. You can imagine Earth's magnetic field like there is a giant bar magnet buried inside Earth. The magnet's south pole is close to Earth's geographical north pole, and the magnet's north pole is close to Earth's geographic south pole. Earth's magnetic and geographic poles do not line up with each other perfectly, but they are very close. There are numerous distinct types of magnets. Permanent magnets are magnets which permanently retain their magnetic field. This is different from a temporary magnet, which usually only has a magnetic field when it's placed in a bigger, stronger magnetic field, or if electrical current flows through it. The bar magnet and paper clips from Figure 9 are examples of permanent and temporary magnets, respectively. The bar magnet is surrounded by a magnetic field, so it's a permanent magnet. The paper clips do not normally have a magnetic field; Quite simply, you can't use one paper clip to pick up another paper clip. But when you bring the bar magnet near the paper clips, they become magnetized and act like magnets, so they are temporary magnets. Another sort of temporary magnet, called an electromagnet, uses power to create a magnet. Watch the Electromagnetism tab to learn more about electromagnets.In everyday language, we usually just refer to magnets, and materials that are attracted to magnets, as"magnetic." Technically, these materials are known as ferromagnetic. It's important to remember that not all metals are ferromagnetic. You will see this if you try to get a copper penny or a sheet of aluminum foil using a magnet. The most common ferromagnetic metals are iron, nickel, and cobalt.Ferromagnetic material contains many tiny magnetic domains at the microscopic level. Normally, these domains point randomly in all different directions, so all the tiny magnetic fields cancel each other out, and the overall material is not surrounded by a magnetic field. However, when a material is magnetized (usually by putting it in a strong magnetic field), each one these little magnetic fields line up, creating an overall larger magnetic field.Figure 14. In ferromagnetic material, miniature magnetic fields can be oriented randomly in different directions, canceling each other out. In cases like this, the material will not show magnetic features (left). When the magnetic fields lineup and all point in the same way, they combine and generate a large magnetic field. The material will then demonstrate the characteristic of a magnet (right). How, exactly, the little magnetic fields are generated depends on how electrons move inside atoms. To find out more about electricity and electrons, see the Static Electricity tab.

Rare-earth magnets

CMS Magnetics has a wide variety of magnets for sale. Our best sellers are typically our rare earth magnets which include both Neodymium Magnets & Samarium -Cobalt magnets. These magnets come in many shapes (see below) and strengths as well as variations such as with adhesive, countersunk holes and several finishing coats.

Rare-earth magnets are strong permanent magnets that were developed during the 1970s & 80s. A permanent magnet produces a magnetic field that is always on and has no off/on switch like an electromagnet. Rare earth magnets are manufactured using “Rare Earth material which is an ore that is mined from the earth. Two elements derived from this ore material are combined with other materials such as iron, cobalt, and boron. These alloys have been named by their primary rare earth elements names. Neodymium and samarium cobalt.

These two types of rare earth magnets have been through many improvements since the late 70s to develop more strength but since their beginnings have been the strongest permanent magnets on the face of the earth. That is even more true now because of the continual refinements made to the manufacturing process.

*

Nd

Name Neodymium

symbol Nd

60

Atomic Weight 144.24

Electron configurations

Crystalline structure

Physical state at 68 degrees F Solid

Family Lanthanides

Atomic mass Density7.0 g cm-3

Melting point 1024 °C

Boiling point 3074 °C

Isotopes9

Discovered by

Also Called ND, Neodymium - Nd Neodymium

Neodymium Alloy (used in neodymium magnets) NdFeb (Neodymium Iron & Boron)

Neodymium Magnets Available at CMS

Arc Magnets

Magnetic Cubes

Disc Magnets

Bar Magnets

Magnetic Balls

Sphere Magnets

Wedge Magnets

Ring Magnets

As well as Magnetic Tools, Toys & Magnetic Bracelets

Samarium-Cobalt Magnets Available at CMS

SMCO MAGNETS DISC

SmCo Block Magnets

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Neodymium Strip Mine In China

15 elements are listed on the Periodic Table of the Elements that belong to the rare earth family. On the table, they are referred to as the Lanthanides. The 2 we are interested in are Neodymium Nd in a cell phone Neodymium is used in the speaker, microphone, and vibration units

Mars Rovers have been using these strong magnets for dust collection (for analysis) for years

melikechi-img3.jpgNeodymium Neodymium Neodymium is a glistening silvery-yellow metal. It's quite responsive and quickly tarnishes in the atmosphere and the coat of corrosion formed doesn't protect the metal from further oxidation, so it must be kept away from contact with air. Applications

Neodymium is one of those rare chemicals that is found in homes in equipment such as televisions,

These magnets are commonly used in

Modern vehicles (brakes & AC components)

Data storage

Household items ( magnetic hooks, knife holders, craft magnets & toys)

Loudspeakers.

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Neodymium

Neodymium is the 2nd most abundant of these rare-earth components (after cerium) and is nearly as abundant as aluminum. Neodymium is found in minerals that have all lanthanide minerals, such as monazite and bastnasite.

Neodymium found in humans is very small and, even though the metal has no biological function. Neodymium can be very painful if the dust or salts get into the eyes. Even ingested neodymium is only slightly toxic.

Neodymium however, can cause lung problems, particularly during long-term exposure.

Neodymium magnets are extremely powerful permanent (non-electromagnets) magnets made from an alloy of neodymium, iron & boron. Two elements from the lanthanide group of elements are used in making very powerful magnets. They are Samarium & Neodymium. The elemental group Lanthanides along with two other chemically similar compounds, scandium and yttrium are collectively called Rare Earth elements.

Samarium-cobalt

Samarium–cobalt magnets (chemical formula: SmCo5), the first family of rare-earth magnets invented, are less used than neodymium magnets because of their higher cost and lower magnetic field strength. However, samarium–cobalt has a higher Curie temperature, creating a niche for these magnets in applications where the high field strength is needed at high operating temperatures. They are highly resistant to oxidation, but sintered samarium–cobalt magnets are brittle and prone to chipping and cracking and may fracture when subjected to thermal shock.

Other Questions

What is a rare earth magnet? Rare-earth magnets are extremely strong permanent magnets? These magnets are manufactured by combining alloy materials with Neodymium or Samarium then magnetized. Developed in the 1970s and 1980s, rare-earth magnets are the strongest permanent magnets made. Rare earth magnets are a huge leap forward in terms of strength over the magnets of the past & are nearly as responsible for the leap in miniaturized electronics as the integrated circuit.

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How are rare earth magnets made? Rare earth magnets are created by combining Rare Earth Materials such as Neodymium or Samarium with other elements such as Iron, Boron & cobalt and then magnetizing the alloy?

How rare are rare earth magnets? The rare earth elements used to make Rare Earth Magnets are about as plentiful as aluminum? The term “rare earth” was coined soon after discovery because everyone thought it was rare before discovering that the ore was quite plentiful.

How much are rare earth magnets worth

There are many variables to this question of value. First of all Rare Earth is not "rare". It does come from China (98%) & the whims of the Chinese government can and do affect the value or at least the cost. Size and ammount of material is another factor. Typically a md size Bar Magnet or a Mid Sized magnetic sphere will cost about $1.00-1.50 retail.

How strong are rare earth magnets

These 2 Vidios should help with that question:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6feqSNK09Ms&t=19s

Or if that does not convince you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5vPnViHYGI

More about Rare Earth Magnets

Some important properties used to compare permanent magnets are remanence (Br), which measures the strength of the magnetic field; coercivity (HCI), the material's resistance to becoming demagnetized; energy product (BHmax), the density of magnetic energy; and Curie temperature (TC), the temperature at which the material loses its magnetism. Rare-earth magnets have higher remanence, much higher coercivity, and energy product, but (for neodymium) lower Curie temperature than other types. The table below compares the magnetic performance of the two types of rare-earth magnets, neodymium (Nd2Fe14B) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo5), with other types of permanent magnets.

Coercivity

Coercivity is a measure of the ability of a magnet to withstand an external magnetic field without becoming demagnetized. Coercivity is usually measured in oersted or ampere/meter units and is denoted HC.

Both hard & soft ferromagnetic materials exist Hard meaning that they hold their magnetism very well while the soft ferromagnetic materials tend to lose magnetism with a smaller change to their surroundings.

Heat is a major factor, especially in the “soft” range. Many neodymium magnets lose their magnetism at about 174 degrees Fahrenheit. These are great for many applications like transformer and inductor cores, recording heads, microwave devices, and magnetic shielding.

Soft materials cannot be used in things like electric motors and other applications that create a very hot environment.

Magnetically hard, are used to make permanent magnets. Materials with low coercivity are said to be magnetically soft.

TEMPERATURE

Temperature sensitivity varies, but when a magnet is heated to a temperature known as the Curie point, it loses all of its magnetism, even after cooling below that temperature.

The maximum usable temperature for SmCo, about 140 °C (280 °F) for neodymium may be less than 180 degrees F and even lower for flexible ceramics, The exact numbers depend on the grade of material.

A Rare earth element (REE) established Nd-Fe-B and Sm-Co permanent magnets are widely used due to their excellent magnetic properties. An electric car may use up to about 9 lbs of rare-earth magnets, while one of those wind turbines that now dot our landscape use upwards of 600 pounds of specifically neodymium (Nd).

China is the go-to country for rare earth magnets making up for over 95% of mining of rare earth ore and manufacturing of neodymium & samarium cobalt permanent magnets.

You can see why this dependence on such a highly used material could create a strategic vulnerability for the United States and undermines our national security, competitiveness in the defense, clean-energy sectors & consumer electronics. Rare earth shortages also can cause significant supply-chain issues for U.S. technology companies.

Hence, the recycling of infrequent earth-based magnets has gained increasing attention and significance from the permanent magnet industry. Up to now, only very little amounts of REEs have been recycled out of pre-consumer magnet scrap. The objective of the project is to create a scalable, efficient, and low-cost manufacturing method to recycle infrequent earth-based magnets from industrial scrap into precious magnetic alloys and high-performance magnets with tailored properties for certain applications.


Neodymium is part of the rare earth family of elements listed on the periodic table of the elements. Neodymium creates awesomely powerful magnets. Samarium Cobalt is the other material that is part of the rare earth family from which rare earth magnets are manufactured.

properly. Little magnets should always be kept away from small children and pets, as they can cause serious harm if they're swallowed. Very strong magnets, like neodymium magnets, can pull together with an extremely substantial force, pinching your fingers if they're caught in between. You always need to keep magnets away from digital devices, such as computers and mobile phones, and away from credit cards (or any other card with a magnetic strip). This is because the information on such devices can be stored using a magnetic recording, and maybe erased when it comes close to a strong magnetic field.