
CMI researchers from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Case Western Reserve University conducted the activity for this highlight
Innovation
Chloride-based molten salt electrolysis for electrowinning of high purity liquid Nd, without greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Achievement
- Consistent production of gram level quantities of high purity Nd (~99.5 wt. %).
- Stable anodes are not consumed, eliminating CO2 production and enabling continuous operation.
- Galvanix Inc. (SBC in OH) is commercializing the process.
Significance and Impact
Greener, lower-cost approach than existing MSE approaches for Nd, enabling a domestic supply chain for NdFeB magnets. Continuous operation allows for both improved throughput and reduced post processing.
Hub Goal Addressed
Decarbonized rare earth metals production.