Rare earths
Rare earths are a group of specialty metals critical to a wide range of modern technologies and future industries because most have unique beneficial properties. Rare earths are in high demand for permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, personal technology and other applications.
Product information: rare earths
ASM will produce a suite of separated rare earth oxides for up to 15 rare earth elements (including neodymium, praseodymium, terbium and dysprosium). A range of standard product specifications will be available, with exact chemistries and particle properties to be designed and tailored based on market demand. Our operating demonstration plant at ANSTO (global experts in solvent extraction recovery of rare earths) enables us to produce small quantities of test material for customers.
Make a product enquiryRare earth magnets
The key driver of the rare earths industry in recent decades is their application in permanent NdFeB magnets, for which neodymium is a key component. The additional presence of praseodymium contributes improved corrosion resistance with minimal reduction of magnet performance, while terbium and dysprosium each improve magnetic performance at high temperatures.
NdFeB magnets are essential for a growing number of applications involving electric motors, especially sustainable technologies and industries, where they are a vital component of wind turbine generators and electric vehicles. The high energy to weight ratio of NdFeB magnets has also facilitated the miniaturisation of computers, portable consumer electronics and smart devices. Other uses include medical imaging and diagnostic equipment, such as MRIs.
Uses for Rare earths
Clean and renewable energy
A growing number of wind turbine generators incorporate rare earth magnets in their operations. A modern 3MW wind turbine uses 600kg of rare earths.
More InfoHybrid and electric vehicles
Hybrid and full electric vehicles contain large quantities of rare earths. A typical hybrid car contains approximately 28kg of rare earths, including 1kg in the motor and 10-15kg in the battery. Rare earth magnets are also used extensively in small ancillary electric motors, including starter motors, brake systems, seat adjusters and car stereo speakers. Rare earths are also present in sensors, LCD screens, glass and mirrors.
More InfoManufacturing and transport
Catalysts are a major market for rare earths, particularly fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts to separate petroleum products (such as fuels) from crude oil,and automotive catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions in exhaust gases.
More InfoModern healthcare
Rare earth magnets are a key component of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); an average MRI machine contains 700kg of rare earth metals. Rare earths are also used in diagnosis and treatment of ailments including some cancers and rheumatoid arthritis.
More InfoElectronics and communications
The unique properties of rare earths are crucial for the latest fibre optic technologies that power the internet and telephone communications. They are also essential for a range of electronics, including computer components, global positioning systems (GPS), sonar, defence systems and lasers.
More InfoPersonal technology and rechargeable batteries
Rechargeable batteries power many electronic devices (including electric cars). Approximately 25% of nickel-metal hydride rechargeable batteries are rare earths. Rare earths are also essential for various lightweight computer components found in smart devices, including global positioning systems (GPS).
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