A preliminary feasibility study of potential market applications for non-commercial technology magnets

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Magnet consumption and cost savings of La-Nd substituted for bonded Nd-Fe-B in automotive ancillary motor and sensor applications

CMI researchers at Idaho National Laboratory led the activity for this highlight with researchers at Ames National Laboratory

Achievement
A preliminary feasibility and market penetration study was conducted which developed a framework for rapid market assessments of novel magnet technologies such as the La-Nd and Ce-Co magnet developed in FA2.  

Significance and impact
This work allows researchers in the magnet industry to conduct rapid market assessments of novel magnet technologies by outlining the steps required to determine suitable market applications, calculate substitution ratios, and output total market savings/costs compared to a direct competitor. 

Details and next steps

  • Cost savings for the La-Nd magnet substituted for bonded Nd-Fe-B in automotive ancillary motors and sensors were 23 million to 161 million USD by 2050.
  • Cost savings for the Ce-Co magnet substituted for Sm2Co17 magnetic couplings in industrial and energy applications were 2 million to 8.1 million USD by 2050.