Preparation, evaluation and characterization of rare earth alloys directly from oxide intermediates 

Fractured (inner) surface of the reduced pellet of NdFe alloy (reduction time: 24h, cell voltage – 2.9V).
Fractured (inner) surface of the reduced pellet of NdFe alloy (reduction time: 24h, cell voltage – 2.9V).

CMI researchers at Idaho National Laboratory conducted the research for this highlight

Innovation 
Two mixed oxide precursors (Nd2O3+Fe2O3 and Sm2O3+CoO) show promise for conversion to NdFe and SmCo alloys by a one-step electrochemical process.

Achievement

  • A chemical purity >90% for the NdFe alloy was obtained.  
  • Sintering of the oxide powder, prior to reduction, proved  an essential unit operation vis-à-vis non-sintered (mixed) powders.

Significance and Impact
Cost-effective preparation of rare earth-transition metal alloys.

Hub Target Addressed 
Development of a green, inexpensive manufacturing technique for the production of metallic rare-earth alloys.