About this video

• Video Title: Recycling Magnets and Rare Earth Elements
• Channel: ESCI - European Science Communication Institute
• Speakers: None explicitly named in the transcript.
• Duration: 00:02:26

Overview

This video explains the importance of recycling permanent magnets, which often contain valuable rare earth elements like neodymium. It details two main recycling methods: direct recycling (recovering the whole magnet) and indirect recycling (shredding and chemically separating neodymium). The recovered material can be used to create new magnets for various applications, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Key takeaways

• Permanent magnets, found in everyday items and technology, often contain rare earth elements like neodymium.
• Currently, less than 5% of permanent magnets are recycled.
• The HARMONY project is developing more efficient methods for recycling rare earth magnets.
• Direct Recycling: Involves removing the whole magnet, melting it, cooling it, and pulverizing it into powder.
• Indirect Recycling: Involves shredding magnets with attached parts, chemically separating neodymium, and then creating a new metal alloy powder.
• Recycled materials can be used to produce two types of new magnets: strong sintered magnets (for demanding applications like electric car motors) and cheaper plastic-bonded magnets (for household appliances).

The two types of magnets made from recycled materials have different applications:

• 100% metallic sintered magnets: These are strong and suitable for demanding applications such as electric car motors or wind turbines.
• Plastic bonded magnets: These are less powerful but cheaper and smaller, making them ideal for everyday household appliances like hair dryers.