A unique method of rare-earth recycling can strengthen the material independence
01. 07. 2025
The scientific team of Dr. Miloslav Polášek at IOCB Prague has developed a new method of separating the rare earth elements, or lanthanides, which are widely used in the electronic, medical, automotive, and defense industries. The unique method allows metals such as neodymium or dysprosium to be purified from used neodymium magnets. The environmentally friendly process precipitates the rare earths from water without organic solvents or toxic substances. The results were published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS) at the end of June.
Global demand for rare earths is driven primarily by their use in extremely strong neodymium magnets, which enable efficient conversion of motion into electrical energy and vice versa. They are essential to manufacturers of electric cars, wind power plants, mobile phones, computers, and data centers. As these industries develop, demand for rare earths will continue to grow. However, the process of mining and purifying these elements is highly energy intensive and produces large amounts of toxic and radioactive waste.
Read the full press release on the web IOCB.
Read also
- Can we entrust our health to artificial intelligence?
- Scientists uncover a key mechanism of adrenal damage in Addison’s disease
- Prestigious EPS Europhysics Prize Awarded to Czech Physicists
- Space chirping has its order. Czech scientists have revealed when and where it sounds.
- Discovery by an NPI-led research team could contribute to safer wind turbine operation
- Unassuming Start–Stop “Gates” Regulate Protein Production in Cells
- Archaeologists search for traces of the persecution of German civilians in Africa
- Researchers Correct Genetic Defect Associated with Retinitis Pigmentosa Using Modified RNA Molecules
- Czech Scientists to Develop Key Instruments for ESA’s New Space Mission
- Scientists Uncover Hidden RNA Defect Behind Rare Childhood Brain Disorders
The Czech Academy of Sciences (the CAS)
The mission of the CAS
The primary mission of the CAS is to conduct research in a broad spectrum of natural, technical and social sciences as well as humanities. This research aims to advance progress of scientific knowledge at the international level, considering, however, the specific needs of the Czech society and the national culture.
President of the CAS
Prof. Radomír Pánek started his first term of office in March 2025. He is a prominent Czech scientist specializing in plasma physics and nuclear fusion.