CMI researchers at Ames National Laboratory and University of Arizona conducted the research for this highlight
Innovation
Developed a comparative LCA and TEA assessment evaluating the environmental impacts of producing 1 kg of Nd metal from Na‑Nd‑F and K‑Nd‑F routes (REMAFS process).
Achievement
- Found that K‑Nd‑F production had higher impacts across all categories, including energy demand and global warming (>30%) impact.
- Completed a TEA showing that a 100‑ton Na‑Nd‑F plant would yield 62 tons of Nd metal at 95% efficiency, with lower conversion costs driven by less energy‑intensive Na‑Nd‑F feedstock production.
Significance and Impact
Domestic REE feedstock production for producing REE.
Hub Target Addressed
Advancing efficient and cost-effective REE production.
