MaXycle - A novel circular economy for sustainable RE-based magnets

Important results from the project

Aim and objective of the sustainability assessment in ERA-MIN2-projektet "Maxycle - A novel circular economy for sustainable rare Earth based magnets" was as follows: 1. Support the development within the project of type labeling and HPMS recycling of NdFeB-magnets from an environmental and economic perspective 2. To consider environmental aspects along the life cycle 3. To compare the environmental impact of HPMS with chemical recycling from an emission, resource and energy perspective 4. To assess life cycle costs by developing and using an economic model for HPMS recycling

Expected long term effects

The results from the project´s sustainability assessment show that HPMS recycling of NdFeB magnets in combination with the production of new magnets performs well from an environmental perspective in comparison with conventional chemical recycling and that climate impact and the life cycle cost of the process can mainly be attributed to the manufacturing of magnets. The project results also indicate that HPMS recycling and management of scrapped magnets potentially involves health and safety risks, which requires that appropriate measures will be taken to reduce these risks.

Approach and implementation

The sustainability assessment has been conducted in four activities and in close cooperation with the project partners: 1.Litterature review and screening LCA where important environmental aspects were identified for the studied magnets and recycling processes 2, 3. LCA and LCC of HPMS and production of new magnets 4. Compilation of possible risks concerning health and safety when scrapped magnets are recycled via HPMS and when new magnets are manufactured Each work activity has resulted in a unique report where the results are documented and disseminated internally in the project.

External links

Projektets hemsida som utvecklats som del av ERA-MINII projektet.