CMI researchers at Ames Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight
Achievement
Ce-based gap magnet with energy product (BH)max. 18 – 18.7 MGOe, with large coercivities of 6.0 kOe and remanence approaching 10 kG.
Significance and Impact
Magnet is viable lower-cost competitor to SmCo magnets at lower Co content (43 wt.% vs. 53+%) using earth-abundant, inexpensive, industrial grade Cerium.
Details and next steps
- Co content is decreased from 48 to 43 wt.% by use of Ce/Sm 80:20 ratio instead of 100% Ce
- Thermal optimization of the gap magnet reveals high sensitivity of magnetic characteristics to cooling rates during the heat treatment (see Figure).
- Theoretical performance limit for 10 kG remanence is 25 MG-Oe – room for further optimization.
- Next steps include comprehensive microstructural and thermal characterization of the system.
