33 MG-Oe energy product of La-Nd based magnet

MH curves of a La-Nd magnet (La:Nd=25:75) subjected to a series of heat treatments. The heat treatments were applied to the same magnet sequentially. The effect is cumulative.
MH curves of a La-Nd magnet (La:Nd=25:75)  subjected to a series of heat treatments. The heat treatments were  applied to the same magnet sequentially. The effect is cumulative.

CMI researchers at Ames Laboratory  conducted the research for this highlight

Achievement
Exploration of heat treatment shows a large impact on the coercivity of La-Nd based magnets (from 3.8 kOe to 6.1 kOe) and improved (BH)max from 24 to 33 MGOe at RT, for a 25:75 La:Nd ratio. 

Significance and impact
This result proves that heat treatment is a powerful tool to optimize coercivity. In addition, the current heat treatment profile designed for Neo magnet will be optimized for treating the La-Nd based magnet. If we can resolve the non-square loop on the MH curve (see the Figure) by a gentler heat treatment, we will likely achieve 40 MGOe. 

Next step
Optimize processing conditions to achieve 40 MG-Oe.