Extraction of rare earth metals from Nd-based scrap by electrolysis from molten salts

One of the main applications of REs by value is
in permanent magnets, especially those magnets based on
neodymium alloys. This is mainly due to the growing use
of electrical and hybrid-electrical vehicles. Then the
increase of waste streams (end-of-life products and
manufacturing scrap) related to Nd-based magnets is
expected (3).
This work investigates the possibility of using
electrolytic methods from high temperature molten salts
for the direct extraction of Nd or RE alloys from Ndbased
magnet scrap. The innovation of this activity will
rule out the necessity of RE oxide or halide conversion
steps, which will lead to a more effective and
environmental process, as many hydrometallurgical steps
are avoided.
The NdFeB compound (scrap from the magnet
production step or demagnetized spent magnet) is placed
in the anode compartment from where the RE elements
present in the material (Nd, Dy, Pr) are anodically
dissolved in the form of RE ions, which will be further
deposited on the cathode room in the form of REM or RE
alloys.
Different electrolyte compositions and
temperatures will be tested and the feasibility, kinetics
and efficiency of the process will be evaluated.