Thermodynamic investigation into the recovery of rare earth elements

The proposed research aims to contribute to the development of a recycling process for waste magnets. The proposed method is based on slag treatment which is a high temperature process for separation of one element from another based on their difference in oxygen affinity. For example, the affinity of neodymium for oxygen is significantly higher than the affinity of Iron for oxygen. This will facilitate the separation of iron from neodymium in their oxide form.
Cyclic Materials is developing a recycling process for magnets. Considering the complexity of the chemistry of this mixture, it is necessary to perform a fundamental thermodynamic evaluation prior to high temperature experiments. This proposed project will examine the efficiency of slag treatment of magnets via thermodynamic modelling.

Faculty Supervisor:

Leili Tafaghodi

Student:

Partner:

REEcycle

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Agriculture; Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services; Transportation and warehousing

University:

McMaster University

Program: