Sustainable acid-free dissolution recycling of rare earth elements from NdFeB magnet swarf

CMI researchers at Purdue University, Arizona State University and Ames Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight

bar graph compares the characterized global warming potential of acid-free process with different REE production routes in China
Comparing the characterized global warming potential of acid-free process with different REE production routes in China

Innovation
Use techno-economic assessment (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) to evaluate and improve economic and environmental sustainability of novel acid-free dissolution recycling technology.


Achievements

  • Copper nitrate identified as a major cost driver, environmental hotspot., 
  • Material cost reduced by 11% by recycling copper nitrate.
  • Improved environmental sustainability when compared to traditional rare earth element (REE) production.

Significance and Impact
Acid-free dissolution recycling of magnet swarf can create a sustainable pathway for REE production from waste materials. 

Hub Goals Addressed

  • Increase speed of discovery and integration.
  • Recover and convert into high value end products.
table shows TEA results for REE recovery through acid-free dissolution recycling process
TEA results for REE recovery through acid-free dissolution recycling process.