New iron-based ferromagnet CexZr1-xFe3

Figure: upper part shows scanning electron microscope (SEM) backscattered image of the new ferromagnet showing >90% single phase material and magnetic TGA experiment showing Curie temperature of ~550 K. Lower part shows Rietveld refinement of the X-ray powder pattern confirming the hexagonal PuNi3-type structure of the material.
Upper part shows scanning electron microscope (SEM) backscattered image of the new ferromagnet showing >90% single phase material and magnetic TGA experiment showing Curie temperature of ~550 K. Lower part shows Rietveld refinement of the X-ray powder pattern confirming the hexagonal PuNi3-type structure of the material. 

CMI researchers at Ames Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight

Innovation
Novel cerium-iron magnets discovered for U.S. national needs.

Achievement
Discovery of 1:3-type cerium-zirconium-iron ferromagnetic phase with magnetic characteristics for cost effective magnet.

Significance and Impact

  • The material contains no critical elements and allows utilization of abundant domestic cerium (~ 50 % of Mountain Pass ore).
  • Saturation magnetization of 90 emu/g, and Curie temperature above 500 K. These are intrinsic indicators of a practical, low-cost 20+ MGOe permanent magnet.

Hub Goal Addressed
Win industry adoption of three technologies related to materials substitution for rare earth magnet materials. 

Invention disclosure (IPDR) in preparation.