Invention Reference Number
Industrial demand for critical rare-earth-element-free permanent magnets is rising as manufacturers seek materials that deliver mid-range energy products without supply-chain vulnerabilities. This invention introduces a castable Ce–Co magnetic material engineered to achieve performance levels traditionally filled by neodymium magnets, but without critical rare-earth content. By guiding microstructural development during processing, this approach enables improved coercivity and remanence, offering a promising pathway to secure, reliable magnet production.
Description
This technology provides a method for producing bulk Ce–Co–based permanent magnets using controlled magnetic fields during casting and/or subsequent thermal processing. Applying a field of sufficient strength influences how microstructural features form within the alloy, resulting in notable changes to magnetic performance. Experiments show that these controlled processing conditions can enhance both coercivity and remanence by affecting defect distribution, spinodal decomposition, and the overall magnetic alignment of large grains.
The method works by encouraging a preferred crystallographic orientation during solidification or heat treatment, yielding a more uniformly aligned magnetic structure. This alignment contributes to improved magnetic response in the target mid-range energy-product window desired for many industrial devices. Because the material is free of critical rare-earth elements, it offers a more secure and potentially more economical alternative to current magnet technologies dependent on sensitive supply chains. Additionally, the simplified casting process eliminates expensive and hazardous powder making and processing, further reducing manufacturing costs.
Benefits
- Rare-earth-free pathway to mid-performance permanent magnets
- Improved magnetic alignment and stability through controlled processing
- Bulk, castable material which circumvents costly conventional permanent magnetic processing routes
Applications and Industries
- Electric motors, generators, and actuators
- Consumer devices requiring mid-range permanent magnets
- Industrial equipment and energy-efficiency systems
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
