Scientists make key breakthrough that could solve major issue with EVs: 'The idea is to keep it simple'

Czech researchers have developed a new method for recycling rare earth minerals from magnets in electric vehicles using just water and basic laboratory conditions, according to a release from IOCB Prague, as well as a recent report from Radio Prague International. 

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry focused its research on neodymium magnets, the strongest permanent magnets that are commercially available. These powerful components drive EVs, smartphones, and wind turbines — but their production creates massive environmental challenges. Traditional mining and refining processes require hundreds of reactors, generate radioactive waste, and produce enormous amounts of acids and toxic byproducts. 

The team's method uses water as a solvent and operates at room temperature, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals or extreme conditions. "The idea is to keep it simple, something that doesn't require extremely difficult conditions that would be hard to reproduce on an industrial scale," IOCB researcher Kelsea Jones explained, per Radio Prague International.

The process employs chelating agents, or organic molecules that bond with metal ions. Scientists add these agents to dissolved magnets, creating compounds with individual rare earth elements that can then be filtered by weight.

The team processed magnets through several separation cycles and obtained neodymium with 99.7% purity, more than enough to produce new magnets. 

Reusing rare materials will reduce the risk of toxins leaching into soil and groundwater, and it will decrease resource depletion — a problem that often creates unsafe mining operations.

"In the future, we won't be able to cover the growing consumption of rare earths with primary mining," said Miloslav Polášek, head of the Coordination Chemistry group, in the release. "We know that within ten years at the latest, it will be necessary to manage these materials more carefully. In order to achieve this, the development of new technologies must start now.

"Our method solves the fundamental problems of recycling neodymium magnets. ... Our process is environmentally friendly, and we believe that it will work on an industrial scale. Fortunately, unlike plastics, chemical elements don't lose their properties through repeated processing, so their recycling is sustainable and can compensate for traditional mining."

EVs already help to improve air quality in our cities and reduce pollution compared to gas-powered cars, and more accessible material recycling could help to accelerate EV adoption by making them more cost-effective.

The Czech researchers have secured patents for their recycling method and are seeking commercial partners to bring this technology to market. Their breakthrough is a great example of the innovation needed to build a cleaner, more sustainable future — one that benefits both people and the planet. 

For those looking to make their next car an EV, this new recycling technology could also mean that even more affordable options are ahead.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this article misstated that the IOCB team was recycling materials used in EV batteries as well. We regret the error.

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