New method recovers 90% of key rare-earth elements from used magnets

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed an innovative recycling method called the selective extraction–evaporation–electrolysis (SEEE) process to recover rare-earth elements (REEs) from used magnets, particularly those containing neodymium (Nd) and dysprosium (Dy). These REEs are critical for high-performance magnets used in green technologies such as electric vehicles and wind turbines. The SEEE process demonstrated high efficiency, recovering 96% of neodymium and 91% of dysprosium, both with purities exceeding 90%. This method offers a more sustainable alternative to traditional mining and hydrometallurgical recycling, which are often environmentally damaging or energy-intensive. The SEEE process involves three stages: selective extraction using a molten salt mixture to isolate REEs from magnet scraps; selective evaporation to remove byproducts and concentrate the rare-earth elements; and selective electrolysis to separate and recover the metals in high-purity metallic form based on their distinct electrochemical potentials. This approach not